EXTRACTS OF LETTERS 

OP 

MAJOR-GENERAL BRYAN GRIMES, 

TO HIS WIFE, 



WRITTEN WHILE IN ACTIVE SERVICE IN THE ARMY 
OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA. 



TOGETHER WITH 



SOME PERSONAL RECOLLECTIONS OF THE WAR, 



WRITTEN BY HIM AFTER ITS CLOSE, ETC. 



COMPILED FROM ORIGINAL MANUSCRIPTS, 

By PTJI^A-SKI COWPPGR, 

OF RALEIGH, N. C. 



RALEIGH, N. C: 

ALFRED WILEI.VMS & CO., PUBLISHERS, BOOKSELLERS, ETC. 
1884. 






Transfer 

Army War College 

June 20 1933 



y^^ 



PREFACE. 



' TIk' matter contained in the succeeding pages was 
never intended for publication. It represents a short 
sketch of incidents, and participation in the kite war, by 
the hite Ma.ior-Gexeral Beyan Grimes, and extracts 
from letters to his wife, written from the camp, and on 
the fields of battle, and such other matters of record and 
interest as huve seemed to me fit and proper to be inserted 
therein.., • 

Generai. Grimes had for years after the surrender 
determined to write out his recollections of the war, 
solely for tlie benefit, pleasure and curiosity of his cliil- 
dren and their [)osterity, to be read in after years, with 
no view whatever of their publication, but simply to be 
kept as a matter of record in his family. lie had 
commenced this work, as shown in his original manu- 
script, and, as far as he had executed it, it is printed in 
the following pages. 

In his letters to his wife, he gave briefly an account 
of what almost daily transpired, and being written on 
those respective days, was fresli in his recollection, and 
mav be received as strictlv authentic. His known intey- 



4 I'h'KFAC'E. 

ritv and trutlifulncss will need no corrohration of" what 
1k' lias written or related. 

These sketches and incidents demonstrate the charac- 
ter, honor, chivalry — the obligation of dutv, and love 
of country, of a true citizen and a brave soldier. They 
present a truthful and impartial history, and will be 
read with interest and gratification by his friends and 
surviving comrades in war, and wdth this view they are 
thus publicly presented. 

It will be observed that in one or two places discon- 
nected notes appear, indicating clearly his intention to 
refer to them at some other time, and to extend more 
fully their subject-matter. I have thought proper to 
have them printed just as they appear, and as they are 
written in the original manuscript. 

It will als(^ be seen that mention has been once or 
twice made of his horse "Warren." His affection for 
this animal was very great. He had been released from 
all work since the war, except now and then his own 
occasional riding, and the best attention had been given 
him. I have fre(|uently heard him say, that however 
nuich he might need the money, he would not ])art with 
him for thousands of dollars in gold. This old war- 
horse died only a fe\\- \veeks ago, at the age of twenty- 
eight, and in accordance to the General's known wishes, 



IM.'EFACE. O 

was buried as carefully and as decently as a human 
being, near the spot where his dead master now rests. 

Major-General Bryan Grimes \vas born at 
Grimesland, in the county of Pitt, on the south side of 
Tar River, about eight miles from the toAvn of Wash- 
ington, X. C, on the 2d day of November, 1828. He 
received a good academical education, and entered Chapel 
Hill in June,'lS44, and graduated in June, 1848. In 
about a year after leaving college, his father gave him 
the plantation u])oji Avhich he lived up to the time of his 
death, and whereon his family now reside. He had no 
desire for })olitical life, and with the exception of a few 
days he was a member of the Convention of 1861 — 
known as the Secession Convention — he led the (|uict 
life of a farmer, combining industry and good judgment, 
from his early manhood to the close of his life. 

He was on the 9th day of April, 1851, married to 
Miss Elizabeth Hilliard, daughter of Dr. Thomas Davis, 
of Franklin county, who died on the 7th day of Novem- 
ber, 1857. The only living issue of this marriage is a 
daughter, the wife of Samuel F. Mordecai, Esq., of 
Raleigh, X. C. On the 15th day of September, 1863, 
lie was again married to Miss Charlotte Emily, daughter 
of the late Hon. John H. Bryan, of Raleigh, N. C, who, 
with eiii'ht children, now survives him. 



I'RKFACE. 



My relations to Generai. Griaies forbid me to speak 
in siu'li extended terms of praise as my feelings would 
dictate to speak of one of the truest and bravest of men. 
For honesty of purpose — for devotion to principle — for 
firmness of friendsliip — for honor in all tilings — for 
faithfulness to all promises and obligations, and for 
true, genuine courage, he stood on the day of his death 
the peer of any living human being. 

On Saturday evening of the 14th of August, while 
returning from the town of Washington, when at Bear 
Creek, within two miles of his home, he was, just at 
sunset, shot from an ambush by Wm. Parker, a con- 
cealed assassin, and almost instantly killed. A little 
boy, about ten years old, a neighbor's son, was his only 
companion, to whom he said, " I am shot, and will die," 
and immediately thereafter fell slowly to the foot of the 
buggy and expired. Several buck-shot struck the ribs 
and the top of the buggy, but only one shot took effect 
on his person, which passed through the thick part of 
his left arm and lodged deep in the heart. 

That evening's sun jnst sinking into darkness, left its 
frowning shadows upon this terrible deed. Its morning 
rays fell upon a household saddened by affliction, and 
saw the mother and her children still bending over the 
lifeless form. Its middav brightness, on the succeeding 



I'lfKKACi:. t 

(lav, rested niton the larirc and solemn assenihlajje 
gathered at the homestead, to render the hist ;uid only 
trihnte of res])e<'t and att'eetion. The end was soon 
over, and the tomb received all that r(Mnained of" him 
who would have made any sacrifice to maintain his 
honor, and who did freely ])eril his life for his State and 
for his section. 

The rounding' mound marks now, and will continue 
to mark, the resting-place of one who, in life, bore th<' 
type of God's highest creation — the attribute of a 
Creator's mightiest perfection, 

"An honest man tlie noblest work of (lod." 

To the living and the dead of the Fourth Keginicnt of 
Nortlj Carolina State Tioops, who so gallantly served 
the Confederacy in the Army of Northern Virginia, the 
following lines are fitly dedicated. 

PULASKI COWPEK. 

HAi.F.KiH, N. ('., Ai'iiii. !i, I8s:{. 



EXTR]\CTS OF LETTERS 

OF 

MAJOR-GENERAL BRYAN GRIMES. 



An account of hiss own recollections of the war, and a brief account 
in part of his own participation therein, by the late Major-Gen- 
ERAL Bryan Grimes, taken from his original manuscript. — Ex- 
tracts taken from letters to his wife from the fields of battle. — His 
own account of the last figlit at Appomattox.^General Orders. — 
Reports. — Other interesting matter, &c., &c. 

I returned from Europe iu the midst of the great 
political excitement over the election of Lincoln to the 
Presidency, and about the time of the secession of South 
Carolina from the Union, and became deeply interested 
in the action of the South ; and, upon the bombardment 
of Sumpter by Beauregard, had gone down there for the 
purpose of witnessing the fight, but was too late to see 
the capitulation. 

Thence I went to Montgomery, the then seat of govern- 
ment, and from there to Pensacola, to witness the threat- 
ened attack of Bragg at that point. After remaining 
there a few days, and seeing no prospect of the bombard- 
ment, I visited New Orleans, and came up the Mississippi 
river to Tennessee, and was on the train with the first 
troops sent from Alabama to Richmond, and happened 
to occupy a seat immediately in front of Andrew John- 
son, afterwards President of the United States, and then 



10 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

heard the first groans given in contempt of his treachery 
to tlie Sonth, wliich Mere repeated at every station, when 
it was made known that he was on board the train. 

On returning home to North Carolina, I found myself 
a candidate for the Convention which had been called 
by the Legislature during my absence, to which Con- 
vention I was elected without opposition. The election 
was on the 13th May, and I proceeded at once to 
Raleigh, and signed the Ordinance of Secession on the 
20th May, 1861, and whilst a member, advocated the 
most extensive war measures. In a short time after the 
organization of the ten regiments of " State Troops " 
raised for, and by request of the Confederate govern- 
ment, I was offered by Governor Ellis the Lieutenant- 
Colonelcy of the Eighth Regiment, or the majority of 
the Second Cavalry, or majority of the Fourth Regi- 
ment, which latter I accepted. I felt my deficiency of 
a knowledge of military tactics, and Colonel George B. 
Anderson, a graduate of West Point, was Colonel of the 
Fourth Infantry, whilst the others were officered by in- 
experienced civilians like myself, and I preferred a 
subordinate position with an efficient officer to higher 
rank with officers without experience. In consequence 
of this appointment I resigned my seat in the Conven- 
tion and revisited mv home for three dav:^ to arrange 



MAJOR-GEXErjAL BHYAX GRIMES. 11 

mv business matters, and then reported to the eonnnand- 
ing officer of my regiment, \\'hieh was organized at camp 
near Garvsburg, where the regiment remained drilling 
nntil ordered forward, -Inly 2()th, 1801, to Richmond, 
to be in supporting distance to be called to Manassas in 
case of need, and arrived at Manassas 29th July, 1861, 
a few days after Bull Run and Manassas fights, when the 
change of habits induced a serious attack of sickness. 

I received permission to visit the Bull Run mountains 
to recuperate. After a short absence I returned to my 
command, and remained with the regiment until the 
evacuation of Manassas, under General Joseph E. John- 
ston, in March, 1862, then in command of my regiment, 
as Colonel Anderson was in connnand of the post of 
Manassas and the troops in that section. Camped on 
Clark's mountain, near the Rapidan river, until April 
Sth, when the connnand was ordered to Yorktown, 
wiiich point was reached on the 9th. Accompanied 
Colonel Anderson when he reported to General Rains 
for duty, and after assignment to certain posts, civilian 
like, suggested to General Rains that the regiment be 
not divided for duty as he instructed, but kept intact, 
and a smaller regiment placed where these posts were 
intended, not wishing to be left in separate connnand, 
the Lieutenant-(V)lonel beiuii' absent. 



12 EXTRACTS OF IvETTERS OF 

Here, for the first time, I became acquainted with the 
fire of the enemy, and was assigned the post of com- 
mander of the picket line, which I sustained until the 
evacuation on the night of the 8d of May, when I was 
left in charge of the picket line of infantry, with 
instructions to keep up, as usual, the firing throughout 
the night and retire about dawn, which was very peril- 
ous, as torpedoes had been planted on all the roads and 
streets leading into Yorktown, and my picket had to be 
kept outside of the enemy's fire. About the middle of 
the day I regained my command, and encamped with 
them near Williamsburg for the night, and next day 
asked leave of absence to visit the venerable institution, 
"William and Mary's College," during which visit the 
fight commenced, and carried off by the excitement, I 
followed the sounds of strife until in the midst of the 
battle, and never realized my danger until I saw several 
officers and couriers of General Johnston killed, think- 
ing that there was no great danger so long as I was no 
nearer the strife than the commanding General, it then 
being a prevalent idea, which was afterward exploded 
on our side, that the general officers nevei* occupied 
posts of danger. Seeing the flag of my regiment advan- 
cing, I rode up to go in with it, and remarked to Colonel 
Anderson, " I hope you have not required my services." 



MAJOR-GENERAL BRYAN GRIMES. 13 

And then in the only severe and abrupt manner used 
towards me before or after, I was informed that my 
conduct was unmilitarv, and my proper position was 
with my regiment. 

The participation of the Fourth Regiment in this battle 
was slight, and the Brigade Commander being placed in 
command of the field of battle, the command of the 
brigade devolved upon Colonel Anderson, and that of 
the regiment upon me, when Colonel Anderson remarked 
that he would take advantage of my knowledge of the 
field of battle, I having been present during most of the 
engagement and knew the localities, and thus riding 
over the field, we continued until near daylight, when 
we were withdrawn. This night, though in May, was 
one of the most disagreeable of my army experience, a 
heavy, penetrating mist, nearly freezing the men to the 
bone, when all would huddle together for the natural 
warmth of their bodies, and when my horse became the 
centre for the regiment, around which they collected, 
the first few attracted by the animal heat from the horse's 
body, until they formed a complete mass of men. 

From thence the army retired slowly, but always on 
the alert, to the Chicahominy river. While there an 
alarm of the approach of the enemy caused the tents to 
be all struck and wagons sent toward Richmond, leav- 



14 EXTEACTS OF LETTERS OF 

ing the army tentless and comfortless in the midst of a 
cold, drizzling rain. When taking- possession of a rice- 
tierce, or hogshead, which I sliared with Colonel Ander- 
son, I became perhaps the most comfortable of all that 
host, as all comfort goes by comparison. 

I was then ordered with the regiment near Rich- 
mond, and ordered to report to General Garland (Col- 
onel Anderson being in temporary command of Feather- 
stone's Brigade), but was withdrawn and returned to 
Colonel Anderson in time to participate in the battle of 
Seven Pines, on May 31st, 1862, which engagement 1 
entered into with twenty-five officers and five hundred 
and twenty non-commissioned officers and privates. All 
the officers were killed or wounded except myself, with 
four hundred and sixty-two men killed and wounded. 
I attacked the fort and redoubt, where my horse's head 
was blown off, and falling so suddenly as to catch my 
foot and leg under him. The regiment seeing me fall, 
supposed I was killed or wounded, and began to falter 
and waver, when I, still pinned to the earth by the 
Aveight of my horse, waved my sword and shouted for- 
ward ! forward ! Whereupon some of my men came 
to my assistance and pulled the horse off, when see- 
ing the flag upon the ground, the flag-bearer and all 
the color-guard being killed or wounded, I grasped 



MAJOR-GENERAL BRYAN GRIMES. 15 

it unci called upon them to charge! which they did, 
and toiicther with others, captured the fortifications. 
Here, John Stikeleather, from Iredell (Company K, 
Fourth N. C. State Troops), came up and requested to be 
allowed to become the standard-bearer, promising to 
bear it with credit to himself and the regiment so long 
as strength and life lasted. After a few moments the 
enemy began to rally in rear of their tents, and upon 
ni}' calling General Garland's attention to the fact, I was 
ordered by him, in Colonel Anderson's absence, to take 
possession of a wood near by and begin firing upon 
them. In double-quicking across an open space of arable 
land to get to the cover of these Avoods, I perceived 
that the enemy were engaged in throwing up an earth- 
\\'()rk to my right, when giving the command by the 
right flank, I charged the works, taking many prisoners, 
and fired upon the enemy for the remainder of the day. 
That night I slejit between General Garland and Colonel 
Anderson on one horse-blanket and covered by another, 
surrounded by dead and wounded, both men and animals. 
The next day Avas not actively engaged, but retired 
that night, the enemy having been heavily re-inforced. 
From then until the 26th of June there were daily 
skirmishes along the lines, when on that day we passed 
the Cliicahominy near Mechanicsville, and although 



16 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

not aotively engaged, was hekl under terrific infantry 
fire, and eoninianded to support other troops and artil- 
lery, we remained in that position until near daylight, 
when we were ordered oif to report to General Hill, by 
his special orders. Whereupon he directed me to " charge 
that battery," which was the only obstacle on the road to 
Cold Harbor. I asked General Hill if he was aware that 
I had no officers, and only about sixty men, when I was 
told to hold myself in readiness to charge, if others A\'ho 
were ordered forward a second time, failed to take it. I 
deployed my men on the line and instructed them to fire 
upon any of these troops Avho failed to move forward to 
the charge. They were then successful, but found other 
impediments further on, whereupon General Hill deter- 
mined to accomplish his purpose without further sacrifice 
of life, l)y a circuitous route, caused them to abandon 
their position, and marched us down to near Cold 
Harbor, where we again found the enemy in our front. 
Here General Hill, seeing a battery and not being positive 
whether they were Jackson's men, expected at that point, 
(^r the enemy, ordered a flag forward to be waved, 
when I took the flag of the Fourth Regiment and gal- 
loped my horse towards the battery, the enemy opening 
with the whole battery on the line in column in my rear. 
T was on the extreme left of the long; continuous line of 



MAJOPv-GEXERAL BRYAX GRIMES. 17 

battle and kept the enemy in check, until late in the after- 
noon there came an order to charge ! and forward they 
went. My horse was killed and I continued on foot, 
driving- the enemy from his breastworks, through his 
camps, taking his artillery and supplying myself with 
another horse. Here I captured a fine St. Bernard dog, 
which was protecting the corpse of a Colonel of a Penn- 
sylvania regiment, who, upon inspection, was found to 
have on steel breast-plates, -which had protected him so 
long as his face was to the fire, but upon retreating, had 
received a mortal wound in the rear. 

This dog ("General") became the pet of the regiment, 
and remained with it for over two years, when in pur- 
suit of Hunter in the A'^alley of Virginia in 1864, he 
succumbed to the hard marching, broke down and was 
lost, not having the endurance of men. That night 
heard the rumbling of wagons and artillery and the 
tramp of troops, until in the morning it was found that 
the enemy had crossed the Chickahominy. Here, for 
the first time, I had the honor of being introduced to the 
great Jackson, and I now have the mess-chest upon 
which he joined us at dinner, dining from the contents 
of a sutler's wagon captured the day previous. 

Crossed the river at Grapevine bridge and pursued 
the enemy as far as the White Oak, when, against the 



18 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

consent and protest of General Anderson, who had been 
made Brigadier, I was detailed by General Hill to take 
charge of the captured stores and prisoners, and report 
at Richmond with them, General Anderson saying "that 
although small in numbers, Colonel Grimes' regiment 
is the key-stone of my brigade." I remained around 
Richmond until about the middle of July, when an 
attack of typhoid fever compelled me to visit Raleigh 
and recruit my health. My visit home was of short 
duration, returning in time to the army to take a part in 
the first invasion of Maryland and the battles previous 
to the crossing of the Potomac. 

I recall the circumstance near Savage Station of a man 
perfectly rigid in death, with his musket up to his face, 
and in the act of taking aim ; burning of the trains — 
pile of metallic coffins — Catholic priests — a Federal sol- 
dier claiming exceptional kindness on account of his 
being a native of North Carolina, &c. My command 
did not participate nnich in the battle of Second Manas- 
sas, but were in the field and assisted in driving the 
enemy beyond Centreville, Avhen the line of march was 
taken up for ^Maryland, and reached Leesburg 4th Sep- 
tember, and on the 5th, when crossing the Potomac at 
White's Point, near Edwards' Ferry, I received a very 
severe hurt from the kick of a horse, Avhicli inca})aci- 



JIA.IOR-CxEXERAL BRYAN GRIMES. 19 

tatc'd me for active duty, not being able to either walk 
or ride, but had myself carried in an ambulance, in anti- 
cipation and hopes of a speedy recovery. Here we were 
encamped near Frederick City for several days, and then 
moved up to the vicinity of Hagerstown. On the 14th 
the command was called upon to proceed down the turn- 
pike to Middletown, near the pass over South Mountain, 
when, seeing an engagement with the enemy was inevi- 
table, I had myself placed upon my horse and took the 
command of my regiment, and was first sent with the 
command to the left of the turnpike and subsequently 
withdrawn and ordered with another regiment to proceed 
to the assistance of General Garland, then engaged on 
the right. In advancing, was met by the corpse of that 
gallant officer being brought off the field. Here the fight 
continued all day. Here my horse was killed under me 
on the mountain, and to my own and the surprise of my 
men, I commanded my troops in the battle until night- 
fall, when I threw myself down to rest by my brigade 
commander, General G. B. Anderson, who, seeing me so 
exhausted after the excitement of the day, insisted upon 
my going to the rear, and called up four litter-bearers 
and had me carried to the hospital, upon reaching which 
I encountered a new danger, as the enemy were threat- 
ening the wagon trains, and in consequence, as a matter 



20 EXTRACTS Of i.ettp:rs of 

of .safety, the wounded avIio were able to be moved with- 
out danger were ordered to, be transported aeross the 
Potomac at Williamsport, where a few of the enemy's 
c•a^'ahy intercepted a portion of the train and turned 
them down the wrong road, and had by this means 
secured very many of our wagons and ambulances, before 
the trick was discovered, and then there were not more 
than half a dozen wagons intervenino; between the way-on 
carrying me and the road which led into the enemy's 
lines. Together with others of the wounded and wag- 
oners, we drove the enemy off, and I was safely landed 
once again on Virginia soil, having crossed the river near 
Williamsport. 

The next two days, kept with the train and was car- 
ried to Shepardstown, where I remained, being unable to 
report to my command, which was then eng-aged in battle 
at Boonsboro, Avhere my friend and mess-mate, General 
G. B. Anderson, received the wound from which he sub- 
sequently died after returning home. The regiment, 
with General D. H. Hill's command, went into quarters 

(jn the Opequon, near Bunker's Hill, in county, I 

having to be sent to Winchester on account of the serious 
nature of the injury to my leg, as amputation began 
seriously to be talked of. Here and at camp I remained 
until in November, and would have asked for a furlough 
but for the ride, &c. 



^r.V.IOR-GEXERAL BRYAN GRIMES. 21 

I reported for duty, though not recovered (and still 
have an indentation in the bone from the injury), when 
General Hill relieved Colonel Cristie, who had been 
assigned to the oonniiand of Anderson's Brigade, and 
put me in eharge. 

[Here follow notes just as they appear in the original 
manuscript.] 

(Notes. — Railroad at Charlestown near Harper's 
Ferry — Berryville, Shenandoah, Paris, Fisher's Gap, 
Reily, Madison C H., Guiness Station — Dec. 1st — Dec. 
3d — Port Roval 20 miles below Fredericksburg; — Dec. 
13th — night of 14th placed in front line — dead horses — 
request not to be relieved — bunching horses — Hedge — 
cries of wounded — saw enemy retreating eventually — 
informed General Hill — said mistake — freezing — Gen- 
eral Jackson coming up — sent forward to see where the 
enemy were — look of disappointment and chagrin — in 
the matter of flasr — relieved of brigade connnand by 
Brigadier-General Ramseur — left Fredericksburg in 
command of Fourth N. C. at peep o' day May 1st — 
detailed and deployed as skirmishers — Jackson — " Press 
Them!" — Creek — lines encountered on hill Avhere the 
enemy were entrenched, and on flank May 2d — Rodes 
in front, attacked the enemy, commanded by Siegel in 
person.) 



22 EXTRACTS OF LETTF^RS OF 

The command was reorganized and perfected in drill 
and then assigned to destroy the Baltimore and Ohio 
Railroad from C^harlestoAvn, the site of the execution of 
the notorious Kansas ruffian, John Brown, who was 
executed at this point, within two miles of Harper's 
Ferry. The work was done effectually at night by tear- 
ing up the cross-ties and putting them in large piles of 
twenty to thirty, and then crossing the iron rails over 
them and piling a few ties .on top of each end of the 
rails, and just before daylight setting fire to them — the 
Avhole at once — the fire so warping the rails as to unfit 
them for use. 

We were then encamped for some time near Berryville, 

until crossed the Potomac, after the removal 

of McClellan from command, when we crossed the Shen- 
andoah, breaking ice for the passage of the men, who 
had to wade, one bitter cold day, over the river to meet 
the enemy, who were reported as advancing on Paris. 
Here, for the first time, General R. E. Rodes, one of the 
bravest and best officers of the Confederate army, took 
temporary charge of the division which subsequently 
became so distinguished as " Rodes' Division " in the 
history of the Army of Northern Virginia. Here 
occurred a misunderstanding between General Rodes 
and myself, which continued until the spring of 1864, 



MA.IOlMiENERAL liRYAN GRIMES. 23 

and then ended by a gentlemanly and chivalrous action 
on the part of General Rodes. The circumstances were 
as follows : Not knowing that General Rodes was in 
command of the division, and supposing that General 
Kodes, like myself, was in sole command of his own 
brigade, I came up when the troops were crossing the 
river, and expressing my opinion to General Rodes as to 
the sev'erity of the order forbidding the men to remove 
their pants, or shoes, which I thought ought to be done 
so as to enable the men to be dry after crossing, when 
the exercise would in a short time warm them up. Gen- 
eral Rodes said in a sharj) tone he saw nothing hard in 
tlic order, and that I had better go to the river and see 
it obeyed, that he Avas in command of the division, and 
the order emanated from him. The order was reluc- 
tantly obeyed, and after crossing the Shenandoah, as the 
men had necessarily straggled out of ranks, I ordered a 
temporary halt to enable the troops of my command to 
close up and recover their proper position in line. In 
the meantime General Rodes, riding to the front, upon 
seeing me, asked why I disregarded General Jackson's 
Order No. — , requiring the arms to be stacked at all 
halts. The explanation was given and the men ordered 
to stack arms. General Rodes then instructed me to 
await where I was and allow the artillery to pass liiui. 



24 EXTRACTS OF I.KTTERS OF 

Hour after hour passed, and no artillery came up. 
Finally General Rodes sent a courier to know what 
detained nie. I sent word to him that I was waitino- 
for the artillery. He then sent hack, t>rdering me for- 
ward. Upon reaching the small town of Paris, about 
two miles distant, as I. approached, General Rodes was 
standing- on the piazza of the hotel, and enquired in a 
very cross manner, " What has kej)t you so long?" My 
reply was, "Obeying your order." "What was that 
order?" "To let the artillery pass me." " AVhen you 
saw that no artillery came uj), }-ou should have come on, 
as the enemy are advancing." I replied, "You had 
just reproved me for not obeying General Order No. — , 
and if you had not countermanded your order to await 
the arrival of the artillery, I should have remained 
there initil General Hill resumed conmiaud." He then 
placed himself by my side, and went on to place the 
command in position, and said, " Halt your men here." 
"Wlien I gave the command 'Order arms,' }>rei)aratory 
to stacking arms," he said, "you need not stack arms." 
My reply was, "It is General Jackson's order, and you 
have just reproved me for its violation, and J shall d^ 
it." He then ordered us foi-ward about a mile to await 
the advance of the enemy. We had several slight skir- 
mishes witii the enemy's cavalry, and tluMi marched 



MA.]()U-(ii;NEKAl. nUYAX CRIMKS. 25 

parallel with the Federal troops across the nioiuitaiii at 
Fisher's (ia|), tjience down neai' Madison (\ H. to 
Orange C. IT., and thence down tlie ))laid<-i"oad to 
(luincss Station, which we reached on the 1st of Decem- 
ber, 18()2, and on the 3d were moved to Port Royal, 
twenty miles below Frcdei'icksburg, where we had the 
first snow of any de])th of the winter, and remained 
here protecting the river nntil the night of the 12th, 
when the enemy effected a crossing at Fredericksburg^ 
and we were marched all night, and reached Hamilton 
Crossing about day, and were placed in the reserve on 
the extreme right of Jackson's line, and consecpiently 
the right of the Confederate forces, where w'e suffered 
considerably from the artillery of the enemy. Towards 
the evening of the 13th, when the first charge by the 
Federal ti'oops was made, the brigade was moved for- 
ward to supjxtrt the trooj)s in tlie trenches, and took tlie 
front line, 'fhe cries of the wounded in the hedged old 
field in our front, Avhere the enemy had charged, was 
heart-rending and sickening — pleading prayers to the 
Almighty for mercy, and begging for water to quench 
their thirst, which was continued all night. The expected 
charge of next day was deferred, and feeling anxious to 
meet the enemy, the officers of tlic command j)etitioned 

General 0. H. Hill to allow us to remain in the front 
4 



26 EXTRACTS OF TJOTTERS or 

line until the enemy did advance. Then was i»:iven us 
the task of burving the horses l)e]ontrinii- to the artillery 
that had been killed, to prevent the awful stench, not 
knowing how many days we would have to keep in line 
of battle. We found it a difficult task and not easily 
accomplished. During this night knew there was com- 
motion among the enemy, and could see a light in the 
distance flash up and then again be darkened, and inferred 
that the enemy were moving to their right, and that the 
light was obscured as the troops passed, and flashed out 
at the interval between the passage of one regiment and 
the head of another, and sent to report the circumstance 
to General D. H. Hill, whose reply was that I need not 
be uneasy, they A\ere not going to retreat until after 
another effort, and to be ready for their charge in the 
morniup;. 

Before the next morning we were up, every man at 
his post, aw^aiting the expected charge. The fog hung 
low, and ^ve waited impatiently for it to rise and shoA\- 
us the plain below. When I saw the enemy were not 
in sight, I then went forward some few hundred yards 
to reconnoitre, and in the meantime sent word to Gen- 
eral Hill that the enemy had disappeared from my front, 
(xcneral Hill sent my report to General Jackson, and 
hiid himself onlv bcGu there a few minutes, when Gen- 



ma.I()i;-(tKnkral huyan (jhimes. 2i 

t'ral Jackson, accouijKUiied hy (Jcneral Lee, rode up to 
this spot, tlie ln<»:liest eininciu'c on that part of the Held, 
and asked, " AMio says the enemy have gone?" (ieneral 
Hill replied, "Colonel Grimes," then turning to me, 
General Jackson said, "How do you know?" I replied, 
"I have been down as far as their picket line of the day 
])revious, and can see iiothino' of them." He said, 
"Move your skirmish line as far as the line, and see 
where they are." There was a look of deej) chai;rin 
and mortification, very ap])arent to the observer, on the 
<'Ountenance of each, thouoh nothing of the sort was 
ex])ressed in words. The brigade that I then com- 
manded was composed of the Thirtieth, Colonel Parker; 
Fourteenth, Colonel Bennett; Fourth Regiment (my 
own) State Troops, Second Regiment State Troo])s, under 
Colonel Bynum. We then went into winter quarters, 
near Corbin's, and picketed the Rapi)ahannock from 

Prestonburg to by Taylor's house. ()p})osite 

Taylor's house there were ladies, who constantly tried to 
signal us tlie movements of the enemy, particularly when 
Hooker moved on in A])ril following. 

During the month of February was relieved of the bri- 
gade command l)y Brigadier-General Ramseur. ( )l)taincd 
a furlough for a short time and visited home, and upon 
returning was occu])ied in drilling and disci])lining the 



28 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

Fourth Regiment, which regiment was not excelled in 
the army of Northern Virginia, and was noted for its 
esprit du corps. 

On Friday, the 1st of May, before the break of day, 
we were on the march down the old Fredericksburg road, 
towards Chancellorsville, to meet Hooker's army, which 
had just crossed the Rapidan and was striking out for 
General Lee's rear. On this march, for the first time. Gen- 
eral Jackson appeared in full military costume, and con- 
veyed by his personal appearance an idea of the great 
military hero he was. My regiment and a Mississippi 
c;ommand were detailed for the purpose of feeling the 
enemy, and were deployed to drive them in when found, 
my left resting on the road and acting as an extended 
skirmish line. General Jackson rode down the turn- 
pike with the artillery, and whenever necessary, would 
have it to unlimber and feel the woods in our front, and 
would then ride along my line, and upon much resistance 
being shown by the enemy, would say in suppressed 
tones, " Press them. Colonel." 

In this manner, without halting, we marched doAvn 
near their main body, driving them from every position, 
several of their regiments leaving their knapsacks piled 
up where they had been thrown off when called out to 
oppose our onward march. Upon crossing a creek and 
mill-pond, driving the enemy before us, all Avet, tattered 



MAJOR-GENERAL BRYAN GRIMES. 29 

and torn, niaix'hin*^: over the brow of the opposite hill, 
the whole line of the main army opened fire upon ns. If 
they had reserved their fire until we had gained the suni- 
rait, my command would have been annihilated. As it 
was, they were so astounded by the suddenness of this 
alarming fire, that they began to fall back in confusion, 
when I rallied them, ordered them to "lie down," as we 
were protected by the eminence upon the hill above, and 
went forward to reconnoitre in person, when I saw that 
we had come upon a large force entrenched. Made 
a report of these facts to General Jackson, and was 
ordered to hold ray position until relieved, which was 
done about 12 o'clock that night. We then went down 
near the turnpike to bivouac for the night. About 8 
o'clock, after noticing Generals Lee and Jackson in close 
conference for some time, we took up that long march 
for the flank movement, which resulted so seriously to 
the Confederate cause by the loss of General Jackson, 
though successful in an unprecedented degree in the 
result of the movement. After a long, tedious and cir- 
cuitous route to get in the rear of Hooker's army, about 
3 o'clock on Saturday evening, the 2d of INIay, we were 
in position, with Rodes' Division in front, and unex- 
pectedly to them, fell upon Seigel's Corps, that was in 
reserve, and drove them back for miles upon their lines 
behind the entrenchments, attacked them and carried 



30 EXTEACTS OF I.ETTKIiS OF 

the line of CMi'th-works, took the enemy's canij) baggage, 
the meals, and eoflfee, then boiling hot on the fire, which 
we fonnd ven- refreshing, and jnst at dark, when we 
snp})osed the fighting over, and was in the act of eating 
my supper by an enemy's camp-fire and from his larder, 
very unexpectedly a brisk fire commenced, and in a few 
minutes cannonading, the enemy raking the woods and 
plank-road with grape and canister. Feai'ing the enemy 
were about to charge, I called upon my troops to occupy 
the breast-work \vhich we had captured an hour previous, 
and be prepared for the attack. 

After getting in position, near the plank-road, I >vent 
up the road to see if I could hear anything to account 
for the sudden firing, when I met a party bearing a litter 
off the field, and enquired who it was. Some one said 
" Lieutenant Sumter," and upon going a step or two 
further, I encountered General Rodes, who informed me 
that the wounded officer was none other than General 
Jackson, but he thought it advisable that it should be 
concealed from the troops, for fear of disheartening them, 
in view of the serious work ahead of us in the morning. 
We lay down behind the breast-^\•orks and rested for the 
night. 

Sunday, May 3d, Chancellorsville. Before daybreak 
this morning we Avere called upon to hold ourselves in 
readiness to support other troops when needed, as in con- 



MAJOK-OENERAI. BKYAN GRIMES. 31 

sideratioii of our having borne the brunt of the titrhts for 
the two previous clays, others were to talce the advance. 

We rested just in rear of the Brigade, a brigade 

of previous good reputation, which occupied the breast- 
works captui-ed by us the day previous. A staff officer 
rode up and directed, by command of General J. E. B. 
Stuart (Avho had assumed command after General Jack- 
son was wounded), the officer in command of this brigade 
to advance and charge the enemy. General Raraseur and 
myself being on the i)lank-road and hearing the order 
ffiven. This briy;ade commander declined to move for- 
ward his command ex(;ept by order of his division com- 
mander. General Ramseur then said to this staff officer, 
" Give me the order and I will charge." I remonstrated 
with him, saying, as we had done the fighting of the two 
previous days, let this brigade move forward and we 
would support them. General Ramseur said no, repeated 
his offer to advance, when this officer said, "Then you 
make the charge, General Ramseur." General Ramseur 
then turned to me, saying, "Let us hurry back. Call 
your men to attention !" which I did upon reaching the 
command, when he ordered three regiments of his bri- 
ii-ade to advance, the other regiment being detached to 
protect our right. The command " Forward !" was 
given, and we moved u]) to th(! earth- work occupied by 



32 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OP^ 

this brij^ade, aiul had to clini!) over the.se men now lying 
down behind it for protection, and over the breast-works, 
and again form in line of battle. Our men were entirely 
disgusted at their cowardly conduct, and I, myself, put 
my foot on the back and head of an officer of high rank, 
in nujunting the work, and, through very spite, ground 
his face in the earth. I heard one exclaim, "You may 
double-quick, but you will come back faster than you 
go." Mine, the Fourth Regiment, was on the left of 
the command, and our left rested on the plank-road. 
The command was given, and we advanced in a " double- 
quick." The Fourth Regiment and three companies of 
the Second Regiment never halted or fired until we had 
taken the enemy's works in our front, bayoneting Fed- 
eral soldiers on the opposite side of the earth-work. The 
hill across the ravine was covered by many batteries of 
artillery, from forty to fifty guns, which had been scour- 
ing the woods through which we had just passed with 
grape and canister. Seeing their infantry driven from 
their works, they abandoned this artillery. The enemy 
made three distinct attempts to retake this work, form- 
ing their men in column by taking advantage of a ravine 
just beyond the turnpike, but each time were driven 
back with severe loss, our men acting Avith great cour- 
age, enthusiasm and determination. 



MAJOR-GEXERAL BRYAN GRIMP:s. 33 

The artillerists seeinji" only a small portion of the line 
held, now rallied again to their guns and opened u})on 
us. About the same time, my attention was (called to 
my right and rear, where I saw large numbers of the 
enelny fast closing up our line for retreat (the right of 
Ramseur's Brigade having halted to deliver their lire 
upon encountering the enemy where they were engaged, 
while we had taken the breast-work). Seeing these Fed- 
eral troops in my rear, I gave the order to abandon the 
captured works and fall back to the protection of the 

earth-work still occupied by this ( ) brigade, through 

whose cowardice we had suffered so severely. We 
crossed to the right of the plank-road, and got back to 
our line in the best manner possible. In this charge 
my sword was severed by a ball, my clothes perforated 
in many places, and a ball embedded in my sword-belt and 
the scabbard, and I received a very severe contusion on 
the foot; and upon reaching the earth-work from which 
we had first started, I had only sufficient strength to get 
over, and lost consciousness from exhaustion and pain. 
One of my own ambulance corps seeing my condition, 
came to my relief, and from a canteen was pouring water 
over my head when I Mas recalled to my senses by the 
voice of General R. E. Rodes, our division conunander, 
in((uiring, "What trooi)s are these?" The commanding 
5 



34 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

officer wlio had refused to advance when ordered by Gen- 
eral Stuart's staff officer, said the Brigade. Gen- 
eral Rodes said, " Why have you not joined in the 
charge ?" The reply was, " We have had no orders to 
advance." Under the stimulus of this falsehood; I 
fully aroused and pronounced it a base lie; that I had 
heard the order given myself, and repeated his reply. 
Whereupon, General Rodes took out his pistol, rode up 
to this officer, presented the muzzle to his head, and, 
with an epithet of odium, told him to forward his men, 
or he would blow his brains out. He then gave the 

command, and this ( ) Brigade moved forward, and, 

without firing a gun, reached the breastworks that 
we had taken, and found the Federal forces had evacu- 
ated the hill, and safely carried off all their artillery 
posted there. If these troops had moved forward in 
obedience to orders, and encountered the enemy, we 
would have advanced quickly to their support and cap- 
tured the principal part of Hooker's artillery. As it 
was, we met with terrific slaughter in my command, and 
failed to take the artillery. Tliis closed the fighting at 
Chancellorsville for the infantry. 

I was taken upon a litter to the hospital, where my 
contused foot was attended to. The next day I rode 
over the woods we had charged through, and examined 



MAJOR-aENERAI. BRTAX GRIMES. 35 

/ 

the works we had taken, and fonnd scores npon scores 
of" the enemy's dead, around and in front of the work, 
doubtless killed by my command and the three compa- 
nies of the Second Regiment. Forty-six officers and 
men out of less than three hundred (Fourth Regiment) 

were buried near this breastwork the next day. 

s 

This charge was as gallant, noble and self-sacrificing as 
the world-renowned charge at Balaklava of the " immor- 
tal six hundred." Here Polk, my faithful sei'vant, was 
tempted by the offer of |500 to sell the forage that had 
been procured by him for my horse, but could not be 
bought off. 

From here we returned to near ''Hamilton's Cross- 
ing;," and turned into the woods to recover from our 
severe trials of the several previous" days, and reorgan- 
ized, examined, and recommended for appointment, and 
accustomed our new officers to command. Here we passed 
the time in drilling, until about the first of June, when 
we took up our march for Pennsylvania. We crossed 
the Shenandoah near Front Royal on the 12th of June, 
and attacked the enemy at Berryville. 

** **** * * 

Note. — Servant — Caval rv — Camp — Squ i rrel — W i 1 - 
liamsport — Hagerstown — Dr. ^SlcOill, <S:c. 



36 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 



REPORT OF THE FOURTH REGIMENT. 

In compliance with orders, I have the honor of sub- 
mitting the following report of the part taken by the 
Fourth Regiment North Carolina State Troops in the 
engagements around Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. On 
Wednesday, July 1st, we were encamped near Heidel- 
burg, and were under arms and on the march by sunrise. 
About 4 p. M. arrived near the battle field and formed in 
line of battle, being on the left of our brigade. After 
waiting a few minutes, were ordered to advance in line 
of battle, which was soon countermanded, and we then 
moved by the right flank. After proceeding a few hun- 
dred yards, this regiment, together with the Second 
Regiment, -was recalled by Major-General Rodes and 
fronted on a hill to repel any attack from that quarter, 
as at that time there were indications of an advance on 
the part of the enemy. This position was parallel with 
the road down which the other two regiments of our 
brigade had moved. After a very few minutes, the 
enemy not advancing, and a brigade of theirs heretofore 
obliquing to the left instead of advancing towards us. 
General Rodes ordered me, with the Second Regiment, to 
advance. After getting from under cover of the hill, we 



>[AJOR-GENERAL BRYAN GRIMES. 37 

were exposed to a severe, galling and enfilading fire from 
a wood to our right, which compelled me to change front 
towards the right. We then advanced upon the enemy, 
joining our brigade, and driving them in great confu- 
sion, and, but for the fatiguing and exhausting march of 
the day, would have succeeded in capturing a very large 
number of prisoners. As it was, we captured more by 
far than the number of men in our command, but the 
troo})s were too exhausted to move rapidly, as they other- 
wise would have done. We were the first to enter the 
town of Gettysburg, and halted to rest on the road 
leading to Tomsfield. 

We remained in that position during that night and 
Thursday. On Thursday evening, about dark, we 
advanced to make a night attack upon the enemy's 
works, but when we htul approached to within a few 
hundred yards, and drawing the fire of their pickets, 
which wounded several of my men, we were recalled and 
placed on a road, where we remained until 3 o'clock 
Saturday morning, at times subjected to severe cannon- 
ading;. We were then taken to the crest of hills in our 
rear, which position we retained until Sunday morning, 
when we were withdrawn. Appended is a list of 
casualties during this engagement. (Omitted). 



38 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

Too nmeli cannot be .said in praise of both officers and 
men of my command, all conducting themselves most 
admirably. 

I am, Major, 

Very respectfully, 

Your obedient servant, 
(Signed) Bryax Grimes, 

Col. Fourth N. C. State Troops. 

Summary of Notes. — Left Garysburg 20th July, 
1861. Arrived at Manassas 29th July — remained until 
March, 1862. At Yorktown 9th April, 1862. Position 
outside of fortifications evacuated 3d May, 1862. Sup- 
ported other troops at Williamsburg May 5th, but not 
actively engaged. Seven Pines — lost three hundred and 
seventy-four killed and wounded at Seven Pines. 
Crossed Potomac at Cheek's Ford, near Leesburg, 7th of 
September — encamped near Frederick City, Maryland. 
Recrossed the Potomac 19th of September, at Shepherds- 
town. Remained in the Valley, encamped at Bunker 
Hill, Winchester, Front Royal and Strasburg. Crossed 
the " ridge " three times. 

Chancellorsville — forty-six killed, one hundred and 
fifty-seven wounded and fifty-eight taken prisoners, out 
of three hundred and twentv-seven carried into action. 



MAJOR-GEXERAI. BRYAX GRIMES. 39 

Remained at Hamilton's Crossing until od of June. 
On the 0th, went to the support of our cavalrv at 
Brandy Station, but not engaged. Went to Valley, 
crossed mountains and river at Front Royal. Assisted 
in driving the enemy from fortifications at Berry ville 
and ^Nlartinsburg. Crossed the Potomac with the 
advance at Williamsport, Maryland, on loth June, 1863. 
Next day advanced to Hagerstown, acting as provost 
guard of the city during the stay of the enemy in the 
vicinity. From there, via Greencastle, Chambersburg and 
Shippensburg, went to Carlisle, Pennsylvania, eighteen 
miles from Harrisburg, the capital of the State, where 
we went on picket duty. Thence to Gettysburg via 
Heidelburg. Assisted in covering retreat. Recrossed 
the Potomac 14th July, 1863. Stopped at Darksville, 
then came to Front Royal, formed line of battle, resisted 
enemy's advance by that route. Withdrew by Ivuray 
road, crossed the mountains at Snicker's Gap, thence to 
Orange Court House. Sent to Morton's Ford to prevent 
the enemy crossing. On 9th October, 1863, ordered to 
Orange Court House, and went by Madison Court 
House to flank the enemy near Culpepper. Enemy 
made formidable resistance at A\'arrenton Junction and 

, which was overcome, and on the 14th the regiment 

reached Bristoe's Station, tore U]i and destroyed raili-oad 



40 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

track, and fell back to Kelly'.s Ford, on the Rappahan- 
nock. After remaining there several days, retnrned to 
Morton's Ford, on the Rapidan river. 

(October 17th, 1863, Catlett's Station. We fought 
several hours on Wednesday, 14th inst., a running fight. 
Loss from North Carolina greater than from any other 
State. Drove the enemy beyond Centreville. Now 
tearing up bridges and destroying railroads. In a few 
days fell back to original position. October 20th, 
returned home to make arrangements about withdrawing 
my name as candidate for Congress. November 17th, 
returned to the army and took command of the brigade, 
General Ramseur being absent). 

[Copy of Letter to the Voters of the Second Congressional District of 
Korth Carolina.] 

Having been repeatedly solicited, both through the 
public channels of communication as well as by private 
letters from numerous and influential gentlemen from 
the different counties composing the district, also from 
troops in the field, urging me to announce myself as a 
candidate to represent the Second District in our next 
Congress, I feel called upon, under such circumstances, 
to assure my friends of my proper appreciation of their 
Ivind preference, and state that if my fellow-citizens see 
fit to elect me, I shall esteem it a high honor to become 



MA.IOR-GEXERAT- 15IIYAN OKIMES. 41 

their representative, and shall devote my entire energies 
earnestly to the diseharg-e of the ini])ortant duties of 
siieh a responsible position, seeking at all times. In* 
every honorable means in the })ower of the government, 
to restore the blessings of peace once again to our dis- 
tressed land ; and my chief aim shall be to the accom- 
plishment of that end, but fully impressed that no terms 
should be considered for our interest that do not recog- 
nize our complete and eternal separation from the North, 
and acknowledgment of our independence; and I regret 
exceedingly, since allowing my name to come before the 
public as a candidate for their suffrages, that it is not 
within my power to meet my friends face to face before 
the election and express my views on the most moment- 
ous topics of the day, so pregnant with mighty conse- 
quences to the success of our cause; but I will publish 
in a few days my opinions on these subjects, as my duties 
in the field will not admit of my absence from the com- 
mand during the present indications of an engagement 
with the enemy. 

Yours very respectfully, 
(Signed) Bryan Grimes. 

[About October. l«t;:i.] 



42 EXTRACTS OF I.ETTERS OF 

[Copy of letter withilrawitis: from candiilacy of representing Second Con- 
gressional District of North Carolina.] 

To the Voters of the Second Congressioyial 

District of North Caiolina: 

Some time since, contrary to my wishes, I announced 
myself" as a candidate to represent tlie Second Con- 
gressional District in our next Congress. Preferring U> 
remain in actiye seryice in the field until peace and our 
independence is secured, and believing that I can render 
more eff'ectiye aid in attaining that end iu my present 
position, I have, under the circumstances, concluded to 
withdraw my name, trusting that my friends will appre- 
ciate the motives which induce me to this step, assu.ring 
them that at some future time I will cheerfully assume 
any trustor responsibility that they may see fit to recpiire 
at my hands. 

Very respectfully yours, 

(Signed) Bryax Grimks, 

Col. Fourth N. C. Troops. 

[Copy of a letter to Colonel John A. Voung, of Charlotte, wlio was at one time 
Lieutenant-Colonel of the Fourth Regiment, and a nieniliei- of the North 
Carolina Legislature when this letter was written.] 

Morton's Ford, Ya., December 6, 18(53. 

3Ii/ Pear Colonel: You have learned through the 

papers that we have been at the Yankees again, or rather 

it would be more proper to say that they have again 

taken up their "Onward to Richmond," but after a short 



MA.IOll-GEXKRAT. P.HYAX GRIMES. 4.') 

time and a i'cw vollevs of musketry thov did not nioxc 
on quite so expeditiously and confidently, and upon 
examination of our works and defenses, concluded to 
"change front face to the rear," which was done, and 
that hurriedly, much to our chagrin, for our men had 
never felt more confident of victory than on that occa- 
sion. Our position was equally as strong, if not more 
so, than that at Fredericksburg, which you remembei* 
you considered almost impregnable. Upon the discov- 
ery that they had disappeared, our brigade pursued, with 
the old Fourth Kegiment in the lead, as usual, taking up 
a goodly number of stragglers — the meanest in appear- 
ance that we have ev^er encountered yet, being the lowest 
scum of the Yankee foreign population. It was really 
a source of congratulation and encourasrenient to see that 
they were rcihiced to such straits for filling their ranks. 
One good soldier, I kno\\-, must be equal to ten such 
specimens of tlie genus homo. Not one in twenty of 
those we captured were natives of the United States. It 
was reported by these prisoners that General AVarrcn's 
Corps w^as ordered to attack, but refused to do so. 

I have just written a brief history of the Regiment 
(Fourth Xorth Carolina State Troops), which you can 
see by calling on Captain Foote, Adjutant-General, offi- 
cer in charoe of the " Roll of Honor." I liive vou leave 



44 EXTRACTS OF I.ETTP^KS OF 

to call for it and revise and correct it, and cnihelli.sh it, 
if you wish it. Modesty forbids my saying; near as 
much as I could have done in praise of it. By calling 
soon, you can read it before Captain Foote has transcribed 
it on his books. In reference to other enclosures Avhich 
I have had forwarded to him, you will perceive that our 
loss from disease and the casualties of battle exceed five 
hundred. I don't know if any other regiment can 
show such a record. Our regiment is now in tolerably 
f^ur trim, but not such as it used to be. 

Bye-the-bye, there has been a piece of music composed 
and dedicated to the old Fourth. I sent a copy to INIrs. 
Grimes. Call and have her to sing it for you. I wish 
you to make her acquaintance. You will find her at her 
father's, Mr. Bryan. * * * * * * 

I learn that your Legislature is disposed to be frac- 
tious and intractable, like it was last winter. Can't you 
correct it? John, your son, is still at Richmond under 
the charge of the surgeons ; I hope, though, not danger- 
ously ill, but will be able to report shortly. Of course 
you hear from him frequently. * " * * * 

My paper has run out, so has a legislator's patience, I 

fear, so good-bye. 

Truly your friend, 
(Signed) Brya>«- Grimes. 

To Colonel John A. Young, Charlotte, N. C. 



MAJOR-GENERAL BRYAN GRIMES. 45 

[A copy of a request in;uie of our Represeiitntivos in ('ongress.] 

We, the undersigned, officers of the Confederate States 
Army from the State of Xorth Carolina, desire to call 
the attention of our Representatives to the unjust and 
arbitrary manner of selecting general officers, and earn- 
estly request that you call attention of the Senate to this 
matter before the present appointments are confirmed by 
that body. We believe there are instances where officers 
of great worth and skill, and of unexceptionable habits, 
and who had recommendations from g-eneral officers of 
high standing, under whom they had served, have been 
overslaughed, their juniors, who were not superior to 
them in military skill or deportment, being appointed 
over them upon the recommendation of a single general 
officer. In some instances lieutenant-colpnels, upon the 
recommendation of a single general officer, have been 
appointed over many colonels serving in the same l)ri- 
gade or division, some of whom had received recom- 
mendations from general officers under whom they had 
served, and had also been mentioned in official reports 
for distinguished gallantry in battle. We believe this 
system of appointment to be unjust, and calculated to 
injure our cause; that it places the reputation of an officer 
at the mercy of his immediate superior, who, from favor- 
itism or other impure motive, may injure his military 



46 KXTIJACT.S OF LETTERS OF 

standing- 1)V the rccommcndatiou of the a])j)t)intiiieiit of" 
a junior over him. 

We woukl, therefoi'e, suggest that resohitions to the 
following effect be submitted before these appointments 
are confirmed: 

That all appointments to brigadier-generalship, now 
for confirmation of officers who were not entitled to 
expect such promotion by seniority, i. e., who were not 
next in rank to the vacant position; that the number of 
battles in \\hich such officer has been engaged exercising 
a commission at least equal to the command next below 
that to which he has been appointed ; also, how often 
and by whom such officer has been recommended for 
'promotion, and in what battles he has been complimented 
in official repovts for distinguished conduct, be laid before 
the Senate for information. That the same be shown of 
those officers from this State amongst \\hose troops the 
vacancy is to be filled who have been passed over by 
such appointments. That the selection of the lower 
grade of general officers be not confined to the brigade 
or division in which such vacancy occurs, unless all other 
thing arc equal, then the brigade or division to ha\e 
preference, but wlienever a vacancy occurs amongst the 
troops of a particular State, the selection for promotion 
to be made from all the trooi)s of that State serving in 



MA.JOR-CF.XERAL HIIYAN GRIMES, 47 

the anny in wliich the vacancv occur.s. We would state 
that the War Departniciit has a(h)pted a system of pro- 
motion tor all g;rades below that of <i-enei'al, whieli we 
think just and efficient: That an officer cannot he pro- 
moted over his seniors unless they have been examined 
by a board and failed to pass their examination, or any 
especial act of conspicuous gallantry entitles him to such 
promotion. It is not sufficient to show that the offieer 
whose promotion is asked for has behaA'ed in l)attle with 
great skill and gallantry, but some .special act nuist be 
stated. 

Whilst we do not desire to limit the selection of gen- 
eral officers so much, as is necessary with the lower 
grades, we do desire that the appointment of juniors over 
seniors shall not be made without cause. 

(Signed), E. C. Br.vrble, Colonel Thirty-second Regi- 
ment N. C. Troops; J.J.Iredell, Major 
Fiftfij-th ird Regiment N. C. Trooiis ; Junius 
Daniei>, BrigaUier-General ; James H. 
Wood, Lieute nant- Colonel. Fourth N. C. 8. 
Troops; Wm. R. Cox, Colonel Second 
N. C. Infantry; F. M. Partner, Colonel 
Thirtieth N. C. Troops; Bryan Gmimes, 
Colonel Fourth N. C. State Troops. 



48 EXTRACTS (^F LETTP:R8 OF 

April, 1864. Recommended for Brigadier-General 
by Generals Daniel, Ramseur and Rodes. 

[Original <'<)py.] 

Orange Court Hcjuse, Ya., April 24, 1864. 

General S. Cooper, Adjutant and Inspector- General: 

We feel it to be our duty as North Carolina officers, 
and with a high sense of the good of the service, to 
recommend Colonel Bryan Grimes, Fourth North Caro- 
lina Troops, for promotion to the command of the bri- 
gade about to be formed of the First, Third, Fifty-fifth 
aud another North Carolina regiment. We do also 
recommend for this position Colonel W. R. Cox, Second 
North (Au'olina. 

Colonel Grimes is among the senior colonels from our 
State. He has commanded his regiment from the battle 
of "Seven Pines" through all the battles in which the 
Army of Northern Virginia has participated, except 
" Sharpsburg," when he was disabled, and "Fij-st Fred- 
ericksburg," when he commanded the brigade of which 
he was senior colonel. In the official reports of all 
their actions, Colonel Grimes' conduct is highly spoken 
of by his senior officers. In battle, Colonel Grimes is 
conspicuous for skill and gallantry. He commanded for 
several months (from Maryland to Fredericksburg) the 
brigade now commanded by Brigadier-General Ramseur. 



MA.TOK-GENERAL BRYAN GRIMES. 49 

As a disciplinarian, Colonel Grimes has few superiors. 
He is ever zealous in the perfornmuee of military duty 
and in providing for and taking care of his men. 

AVe believe the claims of (A^lonel Grimes and Colonel 
Oox to be very strong : by the appointment of eithei-, 
the good of the service will be secured. 

We, therefore, earnestly recommend their claims to 
His Excellency the President for promotion. 

(Signed) S. D. Ramseur, 

Brigadier- General. 

(Signed) Junius Daniel, 

Brigadier- General. 

Headquarters Rodes' Division, 

April 27th, 1864. 

I take pleasure in endorsing Colonel Grimes' claims 
to promotion. He has served with me in this division 
since its formation at Yorktown, and shown himself, 
under all circumstances, to be a good and reliable officer. 
He is a thorough gentleman, brave to a fault, invalua- 
ble in an action, and his habits are worthy of imitation. 
Respectfully forwarded. 

(Signed) R. E. Rodes, 

Major-General. 



OO EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

GoLDSBORO, N. C, March lOth, 18G3. 

Colonel Brvau Grimes entered the service as Major of 
the Fourth North Carolina Regiment, and for more than 
a year had the admirable training of the lamented Gen- 
eral G. B. Anderson, who was colonel of that regiment. 

Colonel Grimes led the Fourth with most distin- 
guished gallantry at "Seven Pines," and in all the sub- 
sequent battles of the year 1862, except Sharpsburg, 
when he was ill. He has been in many pitched battles, 
and has behaved most gallantly in them all. I think 
that he has seen more service than any colonel from 
North Carolina. His gallantry, ripe experience, admi- 
rable training, intelligence and moral Avorth, constitute 
strong claims for promotion. 

(Signed) D. H. Hill, 

3Iajor- General. 

[Extraots from Letters to liis Wife.] 

Enemy crossed at Germania Ford May 4th and 5th, 
1864. Would not only take black prisoners, but no 
white. 

May 6th. — Whipped the enemy like fury last evening. 
6th. — Have whipped them badly. Burnside's Corps, 
particularly, stampeded like sheep. Some of our troops 
did not behave so well as expected, permitting the enemy 



:\rA.l()R-GENET?AL P.IIYAN GRIMES. 51 

to break lines, or fallinti' back in confnsion. General 
Lee took command in person. With \vavin<i' hat in 
hand, charged, driving helter-skelter. Our brigade suf- 
fered slightly. Charged Burnside's Corps, which broke 
and i*an before we got a good chance at them ; Indians, 
also, who did no service. 

Six o'clock Saturdav morniny;. — p]nemv are movino-. 
Sharp-shooters feeling to see if they be in position, but 
hear nothing from them. Spoils immense ; looks bright 
for Confederacy. 

May 7th. — Enemy active, but nothing accomplished 
by them; regarded as badly whi})ped and demoralized. 
Walker Anderson killed, Cblonel Avery mortally 
woinided, Lieutenant-Colonel Davidson prisoner, Hav- 
wood wounded. 

]\Liy 9th. — AVell, but greatly exhausted; was only 
slightly wounded in instep of left foot. Will keep on 
duty. Are getting the best of fights. 

Battle field of Spottsylvania, May 11th. — By grace of 
God am still spared. The Yankees have been punished 
severely. A\'e now have good breastworks, and will 
slay them worse than ever. Major Iredell killed yester- 
day; shot through the head while l)ravely rallying his 
regiment. 

May 14th. — On Thursday the enemy attacked Major- 



52 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

GeneralJohn.sou's line, breaking through, capturing him- 
self and Brigadier-General Stuart of Maryland, together 
with two thousand prisoners and twenty cannon. About 
5 o'clock A. M., Ramseur's Brigade were ordered up to 
cheek the enemy, who were pressing our men, and kept 
them at bay for about two hours, when we were ordered , 
to charge; drove them (Ramseur's Brigade alone) back to 
the captured works, rested a few minutes, and Ramseur 
having been shot in his right arm, and not able to keep 
up, and seeing no one to apply to, and seeing the neces- 
sity for speedy action, I ordered a second charge, myself 
leading them, and by the very boldness of the move 
recovered the entire works and all the guns, capturing 
many prisoners and killing more Yankees than the bri- 
gade numbered men. They made repeated efforts to 
retake works, but we successfully repulsed every attack 
and held possession until 4 o'clock a. m. Friday, wheii 
we were ordered to move out, which we did just before 
day. General Lee rode down in person to thank the 
brigade for its gallantry, saying " we deserved the thanks 
of the country ; we had saved his army." General Daniel 
who was engaged ov. our left, Avas seriously wounded, and 
yesterday morning, at his request, I was assigned to his 
brigade. He died last night. He was an excellent offi- 
cer, and although I probably gained a brigade by his 



ArAJOR-GENERAL BRYAN GRIMES. Oo 

death, I would have preferred to remain in statu quo 
rather than his services should he lost to the country. 
North Carolina has suffered seriously. 

May 16th. — My es(^apes are regarded as miraculous 
when account is taken of number killed, particularly as 
I never order my men to perform any duty attended 
with danger without sharing it with them. 

May 17tli. — Little fighting. Yesterday enemy moved 
forward to move hospital with fifteen hundred wounded, 
which they carried to Fredericksburg. Loss to North 
Carolina has been very great. Many most gallant offi- 
cers killed. General Daniel had been recommended by 
General Lee for Major-General. 

May 18th. — Yaidvces charged in front but Avere 
repulsed. Considerably strengthened, (rrant continues 
to run them against us. They can't hold out much 
longer. 

May 19tli. — Enemy have disappeared; have orders to 
be prepared to move so as to meet them. This is the 
fifteenth day since we have met them. Have been fight- 
ing more or less every day. If they would retire beyond 
the river and give us a breathing spell, it would be 
decidedly advantageous. Nearly all are fagged out and 
need rest. 



54 EXTRxVCTS OF LETTERS OF 

May 20th. — We made a flank luoveiuent last even in s»; 
and had a very sharp fight with the enemy. Ta\o of 
the "Old Guard " killed— Gus. Byers and Taylor. The 
old Fourth lost sixty-five killed and Avounded. Daniel's 
Brigade behaved most gallautly, conducting itself most 
excellently. The bullets fell thick and heavy around 
me and amid it all my life has again been spared. 

May 22d, Hanover Junction. — ^^"e reached here to- 
day after a most fatiguing jaunt, the enemy attempt- 
ing to flank us as we moved down. 

May 25th. — Yankees still continue obstinate and still 
continue to rush on to their doom, as more of them did 
yesterday when they came on my line. We drove them 
with considerable slaughter, losing but few in Daniel's 
Brigade, who bore the brunt of the fighting. Have now 
been in line of battle forty-eight hours. 

May 31st. — Yesterday a hard day; the exertion I 
made and the fatigue undergone almost superhuman. 
Again this division Avas called upon to make a flanlv 
movement. Whipped them, but at considerable loss to 
Daniel's Brigade. At least three-fourths of the killed 
and wounded were from this brigade. There is no doubt 
of its being a fine body of men and will do credit to my 
command. Major Smith was killcHl, and Ijieutenant 
T^emay, of Raleigh. 



MAJOlMrKXEKAI. HltYAN GRIME.S. 55 

June 5th, 1864. — Received commission as Brigadier- 
General, which, according to General Rodes' request, 
bore date of 19tli of May, 1864, on which occasion, on a 
flank mo\'ement near Fredericksburg, towards the rear 
of Grant's army, I handled the brigade with such effi- 
ciency that General Rodes approached me soon after the 
battle, and shaking me by the hand, said: "You have 
saved Swell's Corps, and shall be promoted, and your 
commission shall bear date from this day." After 
remaining in position sufficiently long for the wounded 
and stragglers to come up, retired to position of the 
corps in the morning. My rank is permanent, so direct 
your letters hereafter to Brigadier-General Grimes. 

June 7tli. — Another flank movement last eveuiup;; 
did not amount to much. Last night came to this spot, 
near Richmond, and for the first time in thirty odd days 
have come in the woods to encamp, massed by regiments. 
Have heretofore rested on our arms in Ijne of battle. 

June 8th. — Had orders to be prepared to move at day- 
light, but are still here near Cold Harbor. My old regi- 
ment made api)lication to be transferred to this brigade, 
which I hope will be granted. I have an affection for 
them, having been associated with them so long, 

June 13th, near Southana River. — Marched over 
thirty miles to-day over sandy road. Everything and 



56 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

(n-ervbody exhausted. Left Cold Harbor at 2 o'clock 
A. M. Appears as if we are going to the Valley of Vir- 
ginia. Are now on the Charlottesville road. Must 
either be after Hunter or going into Mai-yland. 1 pray 
God that it will end more successfully than the other 
invasion. 

June 15th, near Gordonsville. — Stopped here to camp 
for night. Think we will move up the Valley. 

June 18th. — In the morning we take the cars for 
Lynchburg, after a most fatiguing and oppressive march. 
During General Rodes' absence to visit his wife, I have 
command of the division. 

June 21st, 1864, Top of Blue Ridge. — Have been 
pursuing Yankees at such a rapid gait, haven't had time 
to write. Been almost without rations ; hard marching, 
and nothing to eat. Start before day, not stop till dtu'k, 
except to rest for ten minutes. We move immediately. 

June 22d, Salem, Va. — Since leaving Richmond have 
scarcely rested any to invigorate our exhausted energies, 
and with it all a deficiency of rations. For the duration 
of forty-eight hours my brigade did not have a mouth- 
ful of bread, and but little flesh; very little straggling 
and very little complaining. Occasionally, when Gen- 
eral Rodes or Early passed the line, the cry was, " Bread, 
bread, bread ;" but through it all, we made a forced march 



MAJOR-GENERAL BRYAN GRIMES. Oi 

lor tlu' la^^t (lay, and arrived too late to inflict imidi dain- 
iige on the enemy, which was very annoyino;, as we 
expected to get supplies from them, but instead found 
only empty wagons and worthless provisions. At Lynch- 
burg the ladies sent us supplies of good edibles for the 
general officers. At Liberty I was invited out to break- 
fast, which I enjoyed very much. 

(Note. — July, 1864. — He returned home on sick fur- 
lough, being so completely worn out from fatigue and 
hardship as to bring on a severe attack. Was in hospi- 
tal in Lynchburg a few days before leaving for Raleigh. 
Was quite unwell when he returned, and had surgeon's 
certificate of unfitness for duty, but imagined that duty 
called him b;ick to the army.) 

Staunton, August Gth. — Arrived here sooner than 1 
expected. Found Polk and my horse Warren, who had 
been sent home to be taken care of, waiting for me. 
Shall leave early in the morning for Winchester. Learn 
that our ti'oops moved into Maryland Thursday. 

New Market, August 8th. — Have stopped for dinner. 
I have found a very agreeable travelling companion in 
Captain Burrill, a first cousin of General TiCe. With- 
out his company this horseback ride of one hundred 

miles would have been very lonelv. 
8 



58 EXTRACTS OF f.ETTERS OF 

August lOtli, North Fork of Shenaiidoah River. — 
Have learned tliat our troops have returned, and are 
encamped at Bunker Hill, where I will rejoin them to- 
night. 

Stevenson's Depot, August 12th. —My surmises that 
they would not remain long at Bunker Hill are correct, 
and the indications are that we will not stay here long, 
but cannot conjecture in what direction we will move. 
General Early outgenerals all of us. No one cau guess 
when he is going to move, or where he will next bring 
up. The Yankees begin to think him ubiquitous. 

Strasburg, August 13th, — Have been expecting a tight 
ever since I rejoined my command last Wednesday, but 
have had none as yet. We have, through strategic move- 
ments, fallen back from Bunker Hill to this place. Have 
been sick, but am better. Have felt so badly, I regret- 
ted having gone contrary to advice in returning so soon. 

xVugust 14th. — The enemy are very quiet to-day. 
This morning we drew up to attack them, but they fell 
back, and we quietly returned to our rest in the woods. 

Strasburg, August 15th. — Another day of rest and 
free from fighting. Had a delightful serenade from my 
old command. 

Strasburg, August l()th. — Another quiet day, and 
from indications, think it may be several weeks l)efore 



MAJOR-OEJs'ERAT. BRYAN GRIMES. 59 

we have an engagcincnt; for the euemv, as well as our- 
selves, are erecting breastworks. General Anderson 
will join us, when, as we will he tolerably strong, we 
may strike a blow at them. 

August 18tli, near Winchester. — Again have we 
driven the enemy from position, and followed them to 
this place, they still billing back, and not showing nnich 
fight. Their numliers are double ours. We were joined 
by General Anderson's force this morning; also a divis- 
ion of cavalry. Could not write yesterday, was on the 
mai'ch all day. Now two o'clock, and have not broken 
my fast. Am invited out to dinner, which I accept with 
pleasure. 

Bunker Hill, August l*Jth. — The enemy continue to 
fall back, and we have pressed until reaching the present 
position. What is General Early's intention, I can't say. 

Bunker Hill, August 20th. — W^e have an admirable 
camp, but have had nothing but beef and flour, not even 
hog meat or salt, to help along. We remain here a day 
or two to threaten the enemy. I received orders this 
morning, when it was thought the enemy were advan- 
cing, to make a big show of fight and bluflFthem off, if 
possible; but if they came in force, to hold them a little 
while, to give the others time to retreat, and then fall 
l)ack. 



60 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

Charlestowu, Ya., August 21st. — I have had to-day a 
good luaiiy killed and wounded, we being in advauee, 
hut luvve not had all my eonuiiaud engaged. The enemy 
haye a large force between us and Harper's Ferry, which 
Early is demonstrating upon, and is contesting the 
ground most stubbornly. This is a mere feint to frighten 
them and cover some important moye on our part. I 
have no idea we will fight here, for the enemy outnum- 
ber us three to one, and Early knows two well the 
importance of preserving his army. 

Charlestown, August 22d. — My experience to-day has 
been varied. Early this morning we pitched into the 
Yankees and drove them through Charlestown to their 
position on Boliver heights, Avhere they are watching us 
;uid occasionally throwing a shell at us. I have com- 
mand of the front line, and this morning, while visiting 
the jjicket line, as soon as they spied us their artillery 
opened upon us, which passed within a few feet of my 
horse. 

August 23d, near Harper's Ferry. — Amid the fight- 
ing, have escaped injury so far. Find everything more 
plentiful here than in any part of the valley, and the 
people anxious to (jonduce to our pleasure by every 
means in their poAyer. They are loyal to the backbone. 

Charlestown, August 24th. — Another day spent be- 



MAJOR-GENERAL BRYAX GRIMES. 61 

tween Charlestown and Harper's Ferry, the enemy occa- 
sionally (lonioiistrating", and about 12 o'clock to-day their 
cavalry charged our picket line and drove them in, and 
tor the first time in many a day, I doubled-quicked to 
reach my command in time to form line of battle, so as 
to g'ive them a fitting recei^tion. At the time I was 
visiting a neighboring brigade, but reached my own and 
formed line of battle before any other troops. After 
remaining in line half an hour, found there was no use, 
and returned to our resting-place. 

August 27th, Ijeestown, near Shepurdstown, Va. — 
Have been so busy for two days have not had time to 
write. A\"ednesday we left Charlestown and advanced 
towards Shepardstown. When about half wny the 
enemy's cavalry attacked Breckinridge's command, 
which caused a halt, when Rodes' Division came up, my 
brigade being in advance, we formed line of battle, threw 
out one regiment as skirmishers, and advanced upon 
them, driving them before us. We chased them for 
upwards of two hours, many of the men fainting from 
exhaustion. Wc drove them entirely from the Baltimore 
and Ohio Railroad and beyond the turnpike, when we 
halted to rest, and found ourselves two miles in advance 
of any other troops, when at the beginning we were the 
third division in the line. And again that morning, when 



62 EXTRACTS OF LETTP:R8 OF 

near Shepardstown, ami the others had halted for our 
approach, we came upon the enemy and followed them 
until they crossed the Potomac. Whenever we are able 
to get them in a run, I feel, really, like a boy, and enjoy 
the sport immensely. After halting, as we supposed for 
the night, and I had engaged supper for self and staff, 
we received orders to move on the Martinsburg pike, 
but I could not leave without that supper, as I had eaten 
nothing since sunrise that morning. About 10 o'clock 
that night, reached the ground allotted to us, and after 
placing men in position, laid down and slept as quietly 
as an infant. 

Bunker's Hill, August 29th.— Am well. 

August 30th. — Still at Bunker's Hill, quiet. 

August 31st. — Severe march and skirmishing. 

September 1st, 1864. — At 8 a. m. we were called out 
and moved down the road a few miles, when we encoun- 
tered the Yankee cavalry and pushed on, driving them 
through Martinsburg, leaving large quantities of pork, 
corn, oats, clothes, shoes, boots, &e. I enjoyed the sport, 
and after driving them ten miles beyond Martinsburg, 
came back to camp without the loss of a single man, and 
few wounded. We inflicted a right severe punishment 
ui)on the enemy, besides a big fright. They thought we 



^rVJOR-GEXERAL BRYAX (IRIMES. 63 

were on the route to WilHanisport, Maryland. My 
brigade was tlie only one which went beyond the town, 
the others being hahed on the edge of toA\n. 

Camp near Winchester, September 4th. — We are 
having quite a stirring time, and giving the Yankees a 
hot time, and doing a great deal of marching ourselves. 

September 6th, 1864, Stevenson's Depot. — We have 
moved down in the direction of Berryville, Avhere we 
formed to attack the enemy, but found them so strongly 
entrenched, after skirmishing for a couple of hours, we 
retired for the night, ^vhen we reached camp wet, and 
exhausted, and hungry, without a wagon or tent to shel- 
ter us from the rain, spent the night all exposed and 
Avoke up next morning drenched to the skin. About 
ten o'clock, began to retire from the front of the enemy, 
and moved down toward this point, where we started 
from the day before. When within a couple of miles, 
learned that the enemy was between us and our encamp- 
ment, and driving our cavalry before them. My bri- 
gade being in advance, formed and prepared to fight. 
Charged them at double-quick, and had a most exciting 
chase, breaking them in every effort they made to make 
a stand and drove them until night came on and pre- 
vented further pursuit. This fight Avas during one of 
the severest rains that I have ever seen fall. Tom 



64 EXTKACTS OF LETTEIJS OF 

Devcreiix had his horse killed under him, and kej)t up 
with me on foot until I ordered him to stop. J^oth he 
and Tuek Badger behave remarkably ^\ell under fire. 

September 7th, 1864, Stevenson's Depot. — Weather 
terrible. No orders to move to-day. 

September 10th, 1864, Stevenson's Depot. — The 
M eather continues very rainy. We are noM' very much in 
need of clothes :ind shoes, there being at least two hun- 
dred barefooted and half-naked men in my command. 
Am using every exertion to get them clothed, l)ut with 
all our rags and nakedness, can put uj) a most beautiful 
fight. The men go into action with spii'it, and I feel 
like a boy after being in a fight a few minutes. To- 
morrow we break up camp and again goto Bunker Hill. 
General Early has been very successful in all his man- 
oeuvres. 

September 11th, 1864, Bunker Hill. — We have again 
changed. Are now nearer the Potomac than on y ester- 
dav. Expect to move again to-day. Had to drive the 
enemy from this point so we could take possession. I 
learn that the enemy's loss was very heavy Monday 
when my brigade charged them. 

Stevenson's Depot, September l^ith, 1864. — AW' are 
under inarching orders. Erom the report of artillery it 



MAJOR-GENEEAT. BRYAN (JRTMES. 65 

Avill he up the valley, as the enemy api)ear8 to be advau- 
oing in that direction. The nights are very cold ; find 
two or three blankets corafortal)le. 

Stevenson's Depot, September 16th and 17th. — Had 
a serenade last nio;ht a:iven bv the baud of the " Old 
Fourth Regiment," which I appreciate as a mark of 
respect and esteem from my old command. Anderson's 
Division returned to Richmond. Onlv our original 
force left. 

Strasburg, September 20th, 1864. — Yesterday we had 
a most terrible fight at Winchester, and we were very 
roughly handled by the enemy. We lost a great many 
men, and our troops did not behave wdth their usual 
valor. With great exertion on my part and that of my 
staff, mine did better than any other, but that was not as 
well as I desired. General Rodes was killed. Captain 
London, Captain Stitt and Lieutenant Barnes, of my 
staff, were wounded. The horse of one of my couriers 
(Sherwood Badger) and my own horse killed under me, 
and for nine hours was under heavy fire, men falling 
around me almost every instant. Have been as near 
exhausted as a man could well be, not slept ten hours iji 
forty-eight. It was the most trying day of the war to 
me, when after what I supposed was a victory, I saw 



9 



66 EXTRACTS OF I.ETrERS OF 

the enemy break over onr cavalrv and dash in rear of 
our troops and cut and hack away at them. Am truly 
thankful for my safety. 

Strasburg, S^tember 22d. — Requested Lieutenant 
Barnes to telegraph you, for fear the report current in the 
rear of my being killed might reach you. It was a most 
terrible day. In the beginning we drove the enemy and 
killed many, and could have driven them into Harper's 
Ferry but for the troops on our left. Our cavalry first 
gave way, our infantry were flanked, then there \vas a 
general fall back. Ramseur has been assigned to this 
division and Pegram to Ramseur's old command. Gen- 
eral Rodes' place cannot be supplied. He is a serious 
loss to the Confederacy. Captains London, Stitt and 
Lieutenant Barnes are a great loss to me; their aid was 
invaluable. Lieutenant Ho^vard was mortally wounded 
and fell into the hands of the enemy. 

New Market, September 24th. — Have been so busy 
no time to write. Am well and safe after most fatiguing 
and dangerous fighting for five days. My escapes have 
been miraculous. 

Camp near Port Republic, September 25th. — We have 
reached a place of safety, after one of the most harassing 
weeks of anxiety ever spent by me, less on my own 
account than that of others. It has been fight all day 
and retreat all night. Am completely exhausted. 



iSIAJOR-GENERAL BRYAN CRIMES. 67 

Near Port Republic, September 26th. — A week thi.s 
morning since we left camp on September 19th at Steven- 
sou's Depot, when, in less than one hour, encountered 
the enemy, and, forming line, attacked him ; drove some 
<listance, inflicting most terrible punishment upon him, 
and then halted. 

Everything up to 4 o'clock in the afternoon looked 
bright and promised well for a complete victory. The 
enemy had turned their wagons back to Harper's Ferry 
about 4 o'clock, then their cavalry charged our cavalry, 
which was on the left of our infantry, which gave way 
in confusion, and their forces came down on the left and 
rear of our column, when the troops began to give way 
in that quarter. About which time I received orders to 
swing back and front them from that direction, allowing 
the right of my brigade to remain stationary. Upon 
coming into the open field, I perceived everything to be 
in the most inextricable confusion — horses dashino: over 
the field, cannon being run to the rear at the top of the 
horses' speed, men leaving their command and scatter- 
ing in confusion. My men seeing this state of things, 
began also to show symptoms of alarm, which I in a 
great measure checked, threatening to blow the brains 
out of the first man who left ranks, and succeeded in 
quieting them down and keeping thorn under control. 



68 f:XTRACT,S OF T.ETTERS OF 

Tlicii directed iiiy attention to arrestinir the flio;ht of 
others, and many a fellow felt the full weight of my best 
blows from my sword. During- this time the Yankee 
cavalry was dashing among them, cutting and hewing 
right and left. AVe then attempted to fall back slowly, 
confronting them and fighting every inch of the ground, 
which was done through to Winchester and some four 
miles south of that point. The ladies of Winchester 
came out in the streets when the stampede first began 
and formed across the streets and entreated the stragglers 
to return, but without success. I have already told you 
about having my horse killed under me, and my escapes 
from death on that day appeared marvelous, for from 
ten o'clock in the morning until after eight at night, I 
was in the thickest of the fight. Captain London, poor 
fellow, was shot, and caught by me as he fell. Captain 
Foster was killed the same day. That night we marched 
until about 2 o'clock, when we lay down and slept until 
about 4, at which time we were again on the road and 
reached Strasburg about 12 m. on Tuesday, cooked up 
rations, and slept off our fatigue of the previous twenty- 
four hours, I have never exerted myself so much in my 
life and my voice was completely gone; could scarcely 
speak above a whisper. I was as sore as a boil all over, 
and had to have Polk (his body servant) to rub me over 



MAJOrv-GENP^RAL BRYAN GRIMES. 69 

with liniment. On Wednesday we erected breastworks, 
and prepared for the advance of the enemy, and felt yery 
secure of holding the position of the command in front. 
Were busily engaged day and night up to about one 
o'clock Thursday the 22d, when they attacked our skir- 
mishers and drove them in ; did not attack the line of 
battle. About 3 o'clock we perceived two columns mov- 
ing up the side of the mountain to our left, when the 
cavalry was again fronted. I then urged upon Ramseur, 
who commanded our division, to send a brigade or two 
over to their assistance, knowing that the cavalry would 
run if attacked, but he declined to do so until he could 
communicate with General Early, and then sent Cox's 
Brigade, but alas ! it was too late. During that hour I 
suffered more than I've ever done in my life. My 
anxiety for the fate of the army was intolerable. I 
deployed three of my regiments to protect my flank in 
case of an attack, which about 4 o'clock came like an 
avalanche. The cavalry breaking, my skirmish line 
presented but a feeble resistance. The enemy attacked 
me on my left flank, front and rear at the sanie time. I 
remaiued, fought until Ramseur came up and told me to 
save my brigade if possible. The colors of the United 
States troops were then in less than a hundred yards of 
me. I moved otf by my right flank, firing to the front 



70 EXTRACTS ()P^ LETTERS OF 

aud left as I marched. Thinkiug that we were goinjr to 
fight in the trenches, had sent my horse to a hoUow for 
protection. A while before this time I had fallen, in 
walking down the trenches, and sprained my ankle, and 
was able to hobble along, but very slowly. Through a 
mistake, my horse had been carried from the j)lace that I 
had ordered him, and I found myself afoot when I 
ordered tlie troops to leave. 'As we marched by the 
flank we were firing to the right, left and rear. Updn 
attempting to put my men in position in line, I found it 
almost an impossibility, on account of the nearness of 
the enemy, and that I would be left behind to fall into 
the hands of the Yankees. Just then a cannon-ball cut 
doW'U two horses in a caisson, and the drivers were 
engaged in getting the others loose from their harness. 
Two were loosened, and the drivers had mounted them 
before I could get up, and others w^ere cutting out the 
two which remained. To procure one of these horse* 
was a matter of life and death with me, and, while one 
of these artillerymen was cutting away, I vaulted into 
the saddle and told him to hurry up — that I must have 
that horse. He didn't take time to parley with me, but 
ran oif, leaving the horse still fastened by one trace to 
the horse that had been killed; I out with my knife and 
began to cut away, when another driver, who had by 



MAJOR-GP3NERAT. BRYAN GRIMES, 71 

this time cHsentaiigled his horse, loosened this trace for 
me, and I put spurs to my horse. The Yankees were 
then not over fifty yards from me, and I had an open 
field of two hundred yards to run the gauntlet through, 
with but few other objects in view for them to shoot at. 
My escape was almost miraculous. On my way I found 
Colonel Winston, broken down, and took him behind 
me. Overtook my troops and formed into line; made 
several short stands, but the troops on all sides were too 
much demoralized to make a successful fight, and it was 
fall back all the time, and I was carried along in the 
current only by order, when I found no support. This 
state of things continued up to 9 o'clock that night, 
when we finally checked the enemy, and travelled all 
night, until we reached Mount Jackson, where we rested 
several hours. Forming line of battle, we kept the 
enemy in check until dark, when we continued our 
retreat to Rudes' Hill, near New Market, and about 9 
o'clock next morning the enemy again began to press. 
AVe remained until 12 o'clock, when we found that they 
were flanking us in the same manner that they had done 
on the two previous occasions, and General Early then 
began to with(b-aw us in line of battle, which Avas very 
successfully done until about night, wlicn we withdrew 
to Brown's Gap and Port R('pul)lic, the place of one of 



72 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

Jackson's great victories. Here we were called upon 
next day to go out and drive off their cavalry, whieli we 
did, inflicting considerable loss upon them. 

Weir's Cave, September 28tii. — Moved around a good 
deal yesterday, but halted for the night near where we 
started in the morning, except we were on the north side 
of the Shenandoah. It is reported that the enemy are 
falling back to the Potomac. 

Waynesboro, September 29th. — Yesterday, had a most 
disagreeable march, not arriving in camp until 4 
o'clock this morning, travelling all night in the rear of a 
wagon train to protect it from Yankee cavalry, who were 
threatening on all sides. Troops beginning to recover 
from last week's misfortunes; in tolerable lighting trim, 
and anxious to retrieve their lost reputation, 

Waynesboro, October 1st, 18G4. — Yesterday was a 
day of rest — very essential to our comfort, for our 
energies were about exhausted. The enemy is reported 
to be falling back down the valley, which I hope is so, 
unless we had an opportunity of thrashing him. 

Mount Sydney, October 2d. — Nothing of interest. 

Mount Sydney, October od. — The enemy is slowly 
retiring, and we are following him up; but Early will 
])rofit by past experience and not risk too much. 

Mount Sydney, October 4th, 1864. — Another day of 
rest, and what was c^uite as much needed, a good dinner. 



MA JOE-GENERAL BRYAN GRIMES. 73 

The gentleman with whom we dined was ransomt^d by 
his wife and daughters paying all their jewel ly and 
silver, and the house redeemed by payment of forty dol- 
lars in gold. Enemy near Harrisburg few miles from 
here. 

Mount Sydney, October 6th. — This is our fourth day 
of rest, and have made use of it to recruit my exhausted 
energies. Have been drillino; mv men, for I know tlie 
necessity of drilling and discipline to make good sol- 
diers, as I am anxious that those under my command 
should be. 

Harrisonburg, October 7tli. — Again on the march, fol- 
lowing the enemy. 

Camp near New Market, October 9th. — It is pj-oba- 
ble we will remain in our present position for some time. 
Enemy been driven below Strasburg, and as they de- 
stroyed everything on their retreat, we have not the 
wherewithal to subsist our army on. Country a perfect 
desolation. All stock and provisions destroyed. 

New Market, October 10th. — Ordered down the turn- 
pike to meet the enemy. Having gone four miles, were 
ordered to return to camp. 

New Market, October 11th. — Just received orders to 

cook two days' rations and be ready to move at sunrise 

in the morning. 
10 



74 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

Near Woodstock, October 13th. — Arc moving towards 
Strasburg;. Enemy reported as lower down the A'allev. 

Near Strasburg, October 14th. — Yesterday afternoon, 
attacked the enemy; gained quite a little victory. 

Near Strasburg, October 15th. — Stationary. Nothing 
of importance. 

Near Strasburg, October 1 6th. — Enemy quiet on other 
side Cedar creek. 

Near Strasburg, October 17th. — Yesterday, reported to 
General Rosser (cavalry general). About dark, mounted 
my men behind his, took a by-path over the mountains, 
over the most rugged roads I ever travelled. About 3 
o'clock, came up in rear of Yankee camp. Dismount- 
ing my men, prepared to charge them. AVe had been 
informed a cavalry division were encamped at this 
place, but found only forty men, every one of whom we 
captured with their horses. Had a pleasant time. 

Near Strasburg, October 18t]i. — Enemy remarkably 
(piiet. 

New Market, October 20th. — Yesterday morning, after 
marching all night, flanked the enemy in their position, 
whipping them badly, and driving them from their 
breastworks, capturing twenty-odd ])icces of artillery, 
drivino- them several miles. Our left wino; shamefullv 
o-ave wav, which necessitated the drawino- in of our 



:\rAJOR-GENEEAL BRYAN GRIMES. 75 

lines, Mhicli was done in considerable confusion. At 
that time the Yankee cavalry cliari>:ed and completely 
routed our men. It was impossible to check the flight, 
officers and men behaving shamefully. Twice the Yan- 
kees got between me and the route I had to travel, which 
rendered it necessary for me to take the woods to avoid 
captui'e. ^Vbout 7 o'clock, arrived at a place on Fisher's 
Hill, M-here we halted to endeaver to gather up the strag- 
glers and rean-ange our troops. After resting a few 
hours, fell back to this place. It was the hardest day's 
work I ever eni>;ao-ed in — trvino- to rallv the men. Took 
our flags at different times, begging, commanding, entreat- 
ing the men to rally — would ride up and down the lines, 
beseeching tliem by all they held sacred and dear, to 
stop and fight, but without success. I don't mean my 
brigade only, but all. The demoralization was too great. 
All my exertions were of no avail. I was riding a horse 
captured in our night attack upon the cavalry, which I 
mentioned in my letter of last Monday, and had him 
killed by a shell early in the engagement, while on his 
back, the shell not missing my leg two inches. After- 
wards found a horse on the field, rode him the remain- 
der of the day. He also was struck, but not much hurt. 
Had a ball to strike me on the leg, but so slightly that 
the blow was scarcely jierceptible, the ball having 



76 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

expended its force. General Ramseur was wounded 
mortally, and fell into the hands of the enemy. Gen- 
eral Battle, of Alabama, severely wounded. The only 
salvation for this army and the country will be to inflict 
severe punishment on .all who fail to discharge their 
duty. There will be a general court-martial this after- 
noon, and all delinquents will be tried. 

Camp near New Market, October 2 ■2d. — I am now in 
command of Rhodes' old Division — very busily engaged 
all my time in correcting abuses that have crept into the 
department during the long and arduous campaign — 
inspecting camp, attending drills, and hope if we are 
allowed a few weeks to discipline these troops, to have 
them as good and efficient as they were in their best days. 

New Market, October 23d, 24th and 25th.— Still 
quiet. Busily engaged reorganizing. 

October 26th — Enemy quiet for the present. Don't 
know how long it will last. Have no idea when we will 
go into winter quarters. 

New Market, October 27th to 31st. — Employed i\\ 
drilling and disciplining troops. All have the greatest 
confidence in General Early. No blame can be attached 
to him for our failures. Simply want of discipline 
among the troops. 



MAJOR-GEXERAL BRYAN GRIMES. t / 



[Report of the part taken Vjj- Rhodes' Division iu the action of October 
19th, 1804.] 



Headquarters Rhodes' Division, 
October 31st, 1864. 

Capt. Sam'l J. C. Moore, A. A. G.: 

Captain: In obedience to orders from corps head- 
quarters, I have the honor of submitting the following 
report as the part taken by Rhodes' division in the 
action on the 19th October, 1864: 

About dark on the evening of the 18th the division 
moved from camps on Fisher's Hill and was halted for 
an hour or more near the pike, in order that Major- 
General Gordon, in command of the force, who was to 
move to the enemy's rear, could communicate with Lieu- 
tenant-General Early. 

This halt was caused, as I unofficially learned, in con- 
sequence of information received that the enemy were 
fortifying that evening on their left flank. About 8 P. 
M. the march was resumed, and, after passing the stone 
bridge, filed to the right and passed by a circuitous route 
around the base of Fort Mountain, by a blind path, 
where the troops had to march iu single file. The order 
of march was Gordon, Rhodes, Pegram. Upon reach- 
ing the Shenandoah where crossed by the Manassas Gap 
Railroad, the column was halted and massed for the rear 



V» EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

to close up. So soon as this was done, about ] a. jr., 
we again moved forward, following the track of the rail- 
until near Bucktown Station, wliere we again halted for 
an hour and a half, waiting the arrival of the cavalry, 
Avho crossed the river in advance and drove the enemy's 
pickets. 

About 4:30 a. m. the infantry commenced crossing 
the Shenandoah near Colonel Bowman's house, in two 
columns. The passage was eifected with great rapidity 
and in good order, though the rear necessarily had to 
double-quick for some distance to close up. The order 
of march was as follows: Battle, Cook, Cox, Grimes. 
On arriving within a half a mile of the Valley Pike, 
Battle's Brigade was formed parallel Avith the same, and 
moved forward in line of battle. The other brigades 
continued moving by the flank for about three hundred 
yards, when they were faced to the left and ordered for- 
ward, changing direction to the right. Battle soon struck 
the Eighth Corps of the enemy, and charging, gallantly 
drove them in great confusion, but was himself seriously 
wounded while nobly leading his brigade, the command 
of which then devolved on Lieutenant-Colonel Hobson, 
Fifth Alabama. Cook and Cox continued to advance, 
swinging to the right, driving the enemy in their front 
with but slight resistance for upward of half a mile, 



MAJOR-GENERAL IJRYAX GRIMKS. 79 

when (TC'iieral Cox reporting that he Avas flanked on the 
left, a temporary halt Avas made until re-inforceraents 
were sent forward, when the.se two brigades again 
advaneed, Cook captnring several eannon, (aissons, 
ammunition, wagons, &c. 

This movement left a wide interval between Cook's 
right and Battle's left, which was subsequently filled by 
Pegram's Division. In the meantime Grimes' Brijrade 
was recalled from the left and moved l)y the right flank 
through the abandoned camp of the Eighth Corps, which 
had been completely routed, and facing to the front, 
advanced to the pike, connecting with Battle's right. 
This formation was perfected about sunrise. 

The enemy being then in position on a small creek to 
the left of the Pike, with their artillerv on a hie-h ridg-e 
in their rear, and firing, into our line of battle, but tlie 
smoke and fog obscured the troops so that their fire Avas 
inaccurate. Here Major-General Ramseur had skir- 
mishers thrown to the front and to the rig-ht, driving: the 
sharp-shooters of the enemy from ]Middletown. The 
division remained here perhaps half an hour, until a bat- 
tery was brought into position on the right of the pike, 
when (Jeneral Ramseur again ordered an advance, which 
was made in good order, and with a gallantry never 
exceeded. In this advance Battle's Brigade charg-ed a 



80 EXTIIACTS OF LETTERS OF 

battery in its front, capturing in addition to six guns 
many prisoners and a flag. The Sixth Corps was found 
posted on a hill in rear of this battery, and made a most 
stubborn resistance. Grimes' Brigade was ordered for- 
ward and charged them most gallantly, but being greatly 
overlapped on both flanks, was forced to fall back and 
reform after advancing as far as the cemetery. At 
this time there was an interval of three hundred yards 
between this and Battle's Brigade. Colonel Smith's 
Brigade, of Wharton's Division, was brought into action 
on Grimes' right and charged the same wooded hill, but 
w^as likewise repulsed, when Woiford's Brigade, of Ker- 
shaw's Division, which had been ordered to report to 
Major-General Ramseur, arrived on the ground and was 
posted behind a stone fence to the right of Grimes, it not 
being thought advisable to move against the strong posi- 
tion of the enemy. 

The artillery was at this time, 8 a. m., massed on the 
hills near the pike, and the infantry remained quiet until 
by a concentrated fire from the artillery the Sixth Corps 
was dislodged from its position, where they had erected 
temporary breastworks of rails, stones, &c. Upon this 
hill the division was reformed, cartridge-boxes refilled, 
and rested upwards of an hour. During this time skir- 
mishers were advanced and found that the enemy had 



MAJOR-GENERAL, BRYAN GRIMES. 81 

again made a stand at the edge of the woods, about three 
fourths of a mile in advance. We then moved forward 
and joine<l our left to Kershaw's right, halting in the 
road leading from Middletown and at right angles to the 
pike. Here again we halted, perhaps for an hour, and 
then moved forward in echelon by brigade from the left, 
which was occupied by Cook with Cox's Brigade in 
reserve, and took position behind a stone fence. During 
this time the enemy were firing from their artillery, 
eno-ao-inp; ours on the hill in our rear. Our skirmishers 
all the while were engaged with those of the enemy, who 
had driven in our left, but in turn were repulsed by our 
line of battle. In this position Grimes' Brigade was 
about one hundred yards to the right and rear of Battle's, 
with an interval of from two to three hundred yards 
between his right and Pegram's left. At 3:30 P. M. our 
skirmishers were driven in and the enemy advanced their 
line of battle. Grimes' Brigade was "double-quicked" 
upon the line with Battle to meet this advance on the 
part of the enemy, and Cox moved up on a line with 
Cook and to his left, which advance was repulsed most 
gallantly, the enemy fleeing in disorder and confusion, 
throwing down their arms and battle flags in their retreat. 
The nuisketry on our left still continued to increase, and 
at the time our troops were cheering at this repulse of 
11 



82 EXTllACTS OF LETTEKH OF 

the eueniy, the line on our left was seen to give back, 
and the troops to retreat witlioiit any organization. Gen- 
eral Raniseur then ordered the different brigades of this 
division to fall back and form on a stone fence two 
hnndred yards in rear, which was promptly done, and 
the advance of the enemy in our front prevented. 
While holding this position, the gallant and chivalrous 
General Ramsenr was mortally wounded and brought 
from the field. The troops on the left had by this time 
entirely given away, and were running to the rear i« 
o-reat confusion. The enemv were then in frout and to 
the left and rear of the left flank of this division, when 
they began to fall back in the same disorderly manner 
as those on the left. 

Our organization uji to this time was intact. Upon 
the order being given to retire, did so, but the stampede 
on the left was caught up, and no threats or entreaties 
could arrest their flight. Great and rej)eated exertions 
were made by the officers of the higher ranks to check 
the men, but all their exertions were unavailing. 

Upon reaching the south side of Cedar Creek, a few, 
perhaps to the number of two hundred, from Cook's and 
Grimes' Brigades, formed on the right of the Pike near 
Hupp Hill, but when the stream of stragglers came 
running over the hill, with the cry that the cavalry 



MAJOR-GENERAL BRYAN GRIMES. <S3 

were across the creek, and prepared to charge, these few 
likewise scatteied, and could not be kept together. Up 
to the hour of 4 p. m., tlie troops of this division, botli 
officers and men, Aviih a few exceptions, behaved most 
admirably, and were kept well in Jiand, but little plun- 
dering, and only a few shirking their duty. After that 
hour, all was confusion and disorder. The brigade 
commanders conducted themselves, each and all, with 
great coolness and judgment, and are deserving of espe- 
cial mention, using all jiossible efforts to check their 
troops, but without success. 

The death of the brave and heroic soldier, General 
Rarnseur, is not only a loss to this division, but to his 
State and the tK)untry at large. No truer or nobler 
spirit has been sacrificed in tliis unjust and unholy war. 

The conduct of the officers composing the staff of 
this division cannot be too liio;hlv lauded for their y-al- 
lautry and efficiency: Major Peyton for the coolness and 
promptness with which he conveyed orders on the field j 
Major Hutchinson for his efficiency, who was ca[)tured, 
escaped from the enemy, and again captured late in the 
evening; Captain Randolph displayed his usual daring; 
Major Whiting, Inspector, rendered signal service by 
preventing all straggling and plundering; and Lieuten- 
ant Richmond, A. D. C, for his assistance and alacrity 
in transmitting orders. 



84 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

For the conduct of others who deserve especial men- 
tion, you are respectfully referred to reports of brigade 
commanders herewith transmitted. 
I am, Captain, 

Very respectfully, 

Your obedient servant, 
(Signed) Bryan Grimes, 

Brig. Gen. Commanding Division. 

[Farther Extracts from Letters to his Wife.] 

Near New Market, November 1st 1864. — The duties 
of camp are suspended to-day for the purpose of com- 
memorating our respect and attachment for our two late 
c<immanders, Rodes and Ramseur. I could not partici- 
pate in the meeting, owing to a summons from General 
Early to meet all division commanders, which detained 
me six hours. 

Camp near New Market, November 2d to 4th. — I 
am still here. It has rained incessantly for two days. 
Am busy reorganizing Rodes' Division, which I still 
command. 

New Market, November 5th. — No news from the 
enemy. They are still near Strasbiu'g. Our move- 
ments depend on theirs. If they re-inforce Grant, we 
will demonstrate in order to draw them back. 



MA.TOR-GENEEAL BEYAN GRIMES. 85 

Headquarters Rodes' Division, November 6th. — Yes- 
terday, moved camp to jjresent position, where we have 
abundance of wood and water. The monntains are 
covered with snow this morning — very hard on bare- 
footed and half-naked men. 

November 7th. — Weather continues bad. 

November 8th and 9th. — Still at New Market. Yes- 
terday, at Early's headquarters, learned the enemy had 
thirty-six thousand effective men for the field ; more than 
three times our number. At recent fights they must have 
had at least five to one. If not for their cavalry, we could 
soon drive their infantry out of the valley. When the 
history of the war is written, and the disparity of the 
forces engaged is considered, we will come out with 
honor; and if justice is done, it will be shown that we 
have done our duty. 

Learned that after election in the United States, that 
their troops would be moved to some other quarter. 
They are still fortifying Winchester. 

Camp near New Market, November 10th. — We leave 
here to-day to demonstrate against the enemy, to cause 
them to return with their troops topreventre-inforcement 
of Graut. If we accomplish that, it will be all that can 
be expected of us. 



86 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

November ]2tli. — Have again advanced, and are be- 
tween Middletown and Winchester, Enemy falling 
back — don't seem disposed to fight. 

November 13th — We found the enemy, and General 
Early having accomplished his purpose, retired last 
night, and are on our way to our old camp. 

November 14th. — Have just reached our old camp. 
Too tired to write. For five days h.ive been eating 
both '^icals at night — one before day in the morning, 
the other after dark. 

. November 15th to 19th. — Still at New Market. 
Weather bitterly cold. 

November 20th to 22d. — Weather still continues bad, 
but with a good chimney to my tent, keep tolerably com- 
fortable. General Early does not speak of going into 
winter quarters. 

Headquarters Rodes' Division, near New Market, 
November 23d. — Yesterday morning, just before day, 
General Early sent me word that the enemy were ad- 
vancing, and to take my command out to meet them. 
The ground was covered with snow, but in half an 
hour we were under arms and on the way to meet them. 
After going about seven miles down the turnpike to 
Rudes' Hill, found that our cavalry had been driven 
through Mount Jackson and the enemv had crossed the 



MAJOR-GENERAL BRYAX GRIMES. <S7 

Doitli fork of the Shenandoah unci were advancing rap- 
idly, T rode forward, reconnoitered, pnt my men in 
position and attacked them. There were abont fonr 
thonsand of them, all cavalry. When we struck them 
they made a bold stand and attempted to charge, but 
we pressed the shot into them so steadily and rapidly 
that they could not stand it, and began to retreat in dis- 
order, when I pre.-sed all the harder and drove them 
live miles, routing them every time they attempted to 
make a stand; My men were pretty well used up with 
fatigue when I discontinued the pursuit and returned to 
camp cold, hungry and broken down, after my men had 
marched and waded twenty-four miles. 

Headquarters Rodes' Division, November 24th and 
28th. — AVe are here with the thermometer down about 
twenty degrees and the coldest nights imaginable. Hope 
we will go into winter quarters soon. 

Headquarters Rodes' Division. — Yesterday, had a 
long ride and returned after dark, but feel that I wnll 
have accomplished a good thing if the Yankee cavalry 
venture another reconnoissauce to find out where we are. 
Our object is to get in their rear and cut off all * * 
and as there will be but one ford to the river by which 
they can rejoin their command, all arrangements are 
made to get possession of that ford by taking a circuit- 



50 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

oiis route with our division while the others demon- 
strated in front. But if they don't advance in ten days, 
we will miss an opportunity to inflict a severe blow 
upon their cavalry. Provisions and forage are scarce. 
Some of our troops have had unground corn issued to 
them. 

Headquarters Rodes' Division, November 30th. — 
Everything quiet, with only a rumor that General Ros- 
ser had whipped the enemy at Moorefield. When he 
returns it is thought we will go into winter quarters. 

Headquarters Rodes' Division, December 2d. — Gen- 
eral Rosser's success was quite brilh'ant, destroying two 
bridges, two hundred wagons, nine locomotive engines, 
besides immense amount of quartermaster's and commis- 
sary stores, and capturing nine pieces of artillery, five 
hundred prisoners, one thousand horses and mules, and 
several hundred beef cattle. This is the expedition I 
wrote you about in former letter. 

Headquarters Rodes' Division, near New Market, 
December 3d. — I think it probable that we will reach 
the point at which Ave are to winter about the 10th of 
this month. 

December 4th. — Still at New Market. 

December 6th. — We are again disappointed in receiv- 
ing no orders to prepare for winter quarters. All man- 



MAJOR-GENERAL BRYAX (iRlMES. 89 

ner of conjectures are rife. I think General Eearly is 
actuated simply and solely by what he considers the 
good of the service, and is awaiting definite information 
of the enemy, and contrary as it would he to my wishes, 
if we could accomplish any commensurate good, would 
be willing again to go down the valley and attack Sheri- 
dan, and if necessary, stay there, although it would inter- 
fere with my long-cherished desire to spend a quiet win- 
ter, but in my present position the public interest is to 
be considered before private jireference, and the higher 
a man rises in the military service the fewer privileges 
can he enjoy, for he cannot ask indulgence when he feels 
the good of the country will be jeopardized, and as I am 
now commanding a division, will have to remain here 
until some one else comes to fill the place. 

Near Xew Market, December 8th. — Two of our divis- 
ions, Gordon's and Pegram's, left yesterday. I presume 
some important move is on hand. The enemy have sent 
one of their corps from our front. 

Headquarters Rodes' Division, December 10th — This 
morning the whole surface of the earth is covered with 
snow two inches deep. 

Near New Market, December l.'Uh. — Have orders 
to proceed to Richmond to-morrow morning — expect to 
reach there Friday or Saturday. 
12 



90 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

Richmond, December 16th. — Arrived here early this 
morning, and am waiting orders from General Lee. 

Headquarters Rodes' Division, near Petersburg, De- 
cember 18th. — We have arrived at our destination, and 
are located about three miles from Petersburg, and hope 
to-day to be able to make arrangements for the winter. 

HEAEKiUARTERS ArMY NORTHERN VIRGINIA, 

December 29, 1804. 
Circular (Confidential). 

General : I desire that you will avail yourself of 
the present period of inactivity to reorganize and re- 
cruit the troops in your command as far as practicable. 

Ascertain what regiments, if any, it would be advan- 
tageous to consolidate, and how such vacancies as may 
exist among the officers can best be filled. In every 
case in which you may think the officer to be promoted 
unsuitable for the new grade, you will forward a report 
as tt) his qualifi(.'ations, in order that he may be brought 
'before an examining board. 

The difficulty of filling vacancies properly during 
active operations, and the importance of habituating the 
officers who are to be promoted to the duties of their 



MAJOR-GEXERAL BRYAN GRIMES. 91 

new })Ositious, render it jjroper that tJiere should be no 
dehiy. 

\erx respectfully, 

Your obedient servant, 
(Signed) R, E. Lee, General. 

Official : 

V. Dabxey, a. a. Gen. 
To Brig.-Gex. Grimes, Commanding Division. 

January 6, 1865. 
General Grimes: 

General Pickett has been directed to send one brigade 
to the north side. This thins his line somewhat. You 
may have to move up to support him. He has been 
informed that should occasion require that he should 
have assistance, and should he require it of you, that 
j'ou would be instructed to move up at once without 
waiting for orders from here. Please govern your 
action accordingly. 

By order of General Lee: 

(Signed) W. H. Taylor, A. A. G. 

To Brig.-Gen. Grimes, Commanding Division. 



92 EXTRACTS OF t.p:tters of 

Headquarters Pickett's Division, 

January 7, 1865. 
General: 

General Pickett has just received a telegram from 
General Lee stating that a brigade from your division 
has been ordered to relieve our right brigade (Tovey's) 
early in the morning, so as to enable it to occupy the 
line formerly held by General Corse, The General de- 
sires me to say to you that great caution would have to 
be observed to prevent the movement of the troops 
from being seen from "the tower"; that it will proba- 
bly be l>est to delay relieving the picket until after dark 
to-morrow night. He advises that you send as large a 
brigade as possible, as General Tovey's line at present 
covers a great deal of i»;round. He suuro-ests also that 
the officer who relieves this brigade had better see 
Colonel Florivree, who Ls in command at this time, as 
early as possible in the morning, to make such arrange- 
ments as will most effectually secure the movements of 
the men from being observed by the enemy. 
I am, General, 

Very respectfully, 

(Signed) E. R. Baird, A. I). C. 

To Brig. -Gen. B. Grimes, Commanding Division. 



MAJOR-GENEKAT. BRYAN GRIMES. 93 

Headquarters A. N. Va., 

Jamuuy 7, 1865. 
General : 

General Lee bids me say that he wishes you to-mor- 
row morning to move one of your brigades to the posi- 
tion now occupied by General Pickett's right brigade 
on the Bermuda Hundreds line. 

His object is to relieve that brigade, so that it can be 
removed to another point. You will find comfortable 
huts on the line, which the brigade will occupy. In all 
military operations the commanding officer of the bri- 
gade will report to General Pickett while on his line. 
General Gordon has been notified of this order. 
I am, very respectfully, 

Your obedient servant, 
(Signed) C. S. Venable, 

Lieiit.-Col. and A. I). C. 
To Brig.-Gen. Bryan Grimes, Com. Division. 

Headquarters Army Northern Virginia, 

January 30, 1865. 

To Brig.-Gen. Bryan Grimes, Comdg. Division: 
General: The General commanding desires you to 



94 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

liave your division jirepared to move promptly in the 
morning, should you receive orders to that effect. 

Have everything in readiness to move without delay. 

It may be necessary to send you to the north side of 
the James river. 

Very respectfully, 

(Signed) ^y. H. Taylor, A. A. G. 

February 5, 1865, 11 p. m. 
General Grimes: 

The enemy's cavalry have not passed beyond Din- 
widdle Court House. They advanced to that point and 
then retired. 

The General says you need not go up the road. He 
wishes you to remain where you are, or near, anywhere 
near it. Your men can be made comfortable for the 
night. If they cannot be made comfortable, you will 
move down the Boydton plankroad until you can get to 
some wood. If you move, report your location when 
you halt. 

Respectfully, 

(Signed) W. H. Taylor, A. A. G. 



major-general bryan grimes. 95 

Headquarterh Second Corps, 

February lo, 7 p. m. 
Colonel : 

The note from General Ransom's headquarters in re- 

hition to movements of troops is received. If there is 

an accumulation of force on this flank by the enemy, 

\yitli a vie\y to serious move against the S. S. R. R., this 

weather may delay it, but I should be glad to have 

Grimes' Division keep in readiness to join me should 

the commanding General think proper to have him 

report to me in case of a battle. 

I am, Colonel, 

Very respectfully, 

(Signed) J. B. Gordon, 

Major- General Commanding. 

To Col. Taylor, A. A. G. 

[Endorsed as follows :] 

General Grimes : 

A movement of trains loaded ^yith troops, to the 
enemy's left, ^yas reported this evening, and you had 
better keep your division prepared to move. Though 
it may not be necessary, it is advisable to be ready. 
Very respectfully, 

W. H. Taylor, A. A. G. 

Febniarv lo, I860. 



96 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

[Further extracts from letters to his wife.] 

February 15th. — Remained in camp near Petersburg 
until about the middle of the month. Request from 
General Gordon to have Grimes' Division report to him 
in case of battle. Received my commission as Major- 
General February 15th, 1865. 

Sutherland's Depot, February 24th, twelve miles from 
Petersburg. — Left camp and came here, as there was a 
prospect of a fight, but the heavy rains have delayed it. 

February 26th.— Still at Sutherland's Depot. In 
accepting the appointment of Major-General, I hope I 
shall never bring discredit upon myself. The higher 
the position the more there is expected, and, like all 
others who have done their duty in this war, have made 
enemies, but care little for them, provided I can per- 
form my duties satisfactorily to my superior officers and 
for the good of the country. 

Sutherland's Depot, March 1st. — Have been riding 
all day in order to learn the diiferent roads in the sur- 
rounding country, and laying off' new ones to enable me 
to move with rapidity to any point M'hen my services 
may be required. 

Sutherland's, March 2d. — Nothing of interest. Still 
stuck in the mud. 



MAJOR-GENERAL BRYAN GRIMES. 97 

March 8d and oth. — Roads still in such bad condi- 
tion that they are almost impassable. 

March 7th and 8th.— Still at Sutherland's. Had a 
serenade last night — the only thing to break the monot- 
ony. Weather still continues bad. 

March 9th. — Still quiet. 

March 10th. — This is the day set apart by the Presi- 
dent for thanksgiving and prayer, but the weather is so 
bad no service can be held out of doors. 

March 12th. — Am worn out from fatigue and want 
of sleep. Received orders at 2 A. m. to leave for Dun- 
lap's before daylight. At 4 a. m. began the march, and 
upon nearly reaching the pontoon received another dis- 
patch countermanding the order. There was a rumor 
that Sheridan's raiders were moving on Richmond, and 
that caused the move. 

Petersburg, March 14th, 1865. — Yesterday received 
orders to come to Petersburg and relieve Bush rod John- 
son's Division, whi(;h I did, completing my march about 
12 o'clock last night. Suffered terribly from sick, ner- 
vous headache, attributed to a glass of wine I took with 
General Lee, who noticed that I looked pale and 
fatigued, and recommended a glass of wine; and as this 
was something very unusual with him, concluded I 
would take it, and suffered in consequence. 
13 



98 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

This morning was up early examining everything on 
my line. Went to each picket post, and at some points 
so close you could almost see the whites of the Yankees' 
eyes. The Yankee lines are in full view, and at night 
there is constant firing between the pickets. 

Petersburg, March 16th, 17th, 22d, 25th.— Tele- 
graphed this morning of my welfare. This morning 
we charged the enemy's works and captured them, 
taking twelve to fifteen pieces of artillery and a good 
many prisoners, but after taking their works they con- 
centrated a large number of cannon upon us, besides 
several times our number of infantry, and we were 
obliged to succumb, after fighting two and a half hours, 
and retire to our breastworks. My loss was heavy, being 
four hundred and seventy-eight officers and men. Lieu- 
tenant Barnes wounded. As usual, I captured a horse 
to ride during the fight, as I could not get mine over the 
breastworks. It would have done your heart good to 
hear the men cheer as I rode up and down the line urg- 
ing them to do their duty, but would to Heaven this 
carnage was over and I permitted to retire from such 
scenes and live a quiet and domestic life. 

Petersburg, March 27th. — Am well; trust you did 
not hear the .report of my being killed. When General 
Gordon saw me, he seemed very much surprised ; said 



MAJOE-GENEEAL BRYAN GRIMES. 99 

he had just sent a flag of truce to recover my body, but 
I was pleased to know I had brought myself oif safe. 

March 28th.— Still at Petersburg. 

Petersburg, March 29th. — Lieutenant Barnes is doing 
remarkably well. General Cook had his arm badly 
broken, and fears are entertained that it will have to be 
amputated. 

March ... — Our troops were to attack the enemy this 
morning at Burgess' Mills, and I trust that they may 
whip them. For once I am out of it, and not among 
the attacking party. 



100 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA, 
War Department, 

Richmond, June 1, 1864. 

Sir: You are hereby informed that the President, by 
and with the advice and consent of the Senate, has 
appointed you 

Brigadier-General 

in the Provisional Army, in the service of the Confed- 
erate States, to rank as such from the Nineteenth day 
of May, one thousand eight hundred and sixty-four. 

Immediately on the receipt hereof, please to com- 
municate to this Department, through the Adjutant and 
Inspector-General's office, your acceptance or non- 
acceptance of said appointment, and with your letter of 
acceptance return to the Adjutant and Inspector-Gen- 
ei'al the oath herewith enclosed, properly filled up, 
subscribed and attested, reporting at the same time your 
age, residence, when appointed, and the State in which 
you were born. 

Should you accept, you will report for duty to Gen- 
eral R. E. Lee, to command Daniel's late Brigade. 

James A. Seddon, 

Secretary of War. 
To Brig-Gen. Bryan Grimes, Com., d-c, P. A. C. S. 



MAJOR-GENERAT. BRYAN GRIMES. 101 



Headquarters 
Department Northern Virginia, 




III. Brigadier-General Bryan Grimes is assigned to 
the command of Daniel's old Brigade, Rodes' Division, 
Second Army Corps. 

By command of General R. E. Lee: 

W. H. Taylor, A. A. Gcnend. 
To Brig.-Gen. Grimes, Commanding, &c. 



102 EXTRACTS OP LETTERS OF 

CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA, 
War Department, 

Richmond, February 23, 1865. 

Sir : You are hereby informed that the President, by 
and with the advice and consent of the Senate, has 
appointed you 

Major-General 

in the Provisional Army, in the service of the Confed- 
erate States, to rank as such from the Fifteenth day of 
February, one thousand eight hundred and sixty-five. 

Immediately on receipt hereof, please to communicate 
to this Department, through the Adjutant and Inspector- 
General's office, your acceptance or non-acceptance of 
said appointment, and with your letter of acceptance 
return to the Adjutant and Inspector-General the oath 
herewith enclosed, properly filled up, subscribed and 
attested, reporting at the same time your age, residence, 
when appointed, and the State in which you were born. 

Should you accept, you will report for duty to Gen- 
eral R. E. Lee, to command the late General Rodes' 

Division, A. N. V. 

John C. Breckinridge, 

Secretary of Wm\ 

To Ma.t.-Gen. Bryan Grimes, P. A. C. S. 



MAJOR-GENERAL BRYAN GRIMES. 103 



Headquarters 
Department Northern Virginia. 

[Extract.] 

Special Order] 

No. 55. j 

XV. Major-General Biyau Grimes, P. A. C. S., is 
hereby assigned to tlie command of Rodes' old Division, 
Second Corps, and will report accordingly. 

By command of General R. E. Lee: 

W. H. Taylor, A. A. General. 

To Maj.-Gen. Bryan Grimes, Commanding, &c. 
Through General Gordon. 



104 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 



Near Washington, N, C, 

November 5, 1879. 
Major Jno. W. Moore: 

Dear Sir: Iu compliance with your request, I here- 
with transmit my recollections of the circumstances 
attending the last days of the existence of the Army of 
Northern Virginia, embracing several days previous to 
the final surrender at Appomattox Court House. 

On the night of Sunday, April 1, 1865, my division 
occupied a portion of the defences around the city of 
Petersburg, my left resting on Otey's Battery, near the 
memorable Crater, my right extending to the dam on a 
creek beyond Battery Forty -five, Ramseur's old Brigade 
of North Carolinians, being commanded by Colonel W. 
R. Cox, Second North Carolina, holding appointment as 
temporary brigadier ; on their right Archer's Brigade of 
Virginia Junior Reserves ; Grimes' old Brigade of North 
Carolinians, commanded by Colonel D. G. Gowan, of the 
Thirty-second North Carolina; Battle's Brigade of Ala- 
bamians, commanded by Colonel Hobson, of Fifth Ala- 
bama; Cook's Brigade of Georgians, commanded by 
Colonel Nash, extending to the left in the order above 
named, numbering for duty about two thousand two 
hundred muskets, covering at least three and a half 



MAJOR-GENERAL BRYAX GRIMES. 105 

miles of the trenehes around Petersburg, with one-third 
of my men ooustantly on picket duty in our front, one- 
third kept awake at the breastworks during the night, 
with one-third only off duty at a time, and they required 
.always to sleep witli their accoutrements on and upon 
their arms, ready to repel an attack at a moment's 
warning. 

About 10 o'clock on the night of April 1, 1865, the 
cannonading from the artillery and mortars in my front 
became unusually severe, and about 11 o'clock the Fed- 
erals charged, capturing my picket line, which consisted 
of pits dug in the earth for protection from sharp- 
shooters, and occupied by my soldiers, varying in dis- 
tance from one hundred and fifty to three hundred yards 
in front of our main breastworks. I took measures 
immediately to re-establish this line, which was success- 
fully accomplished, and our pits re-occupied. About 
daylight of the 2d the enemy again drove in our pickets 
and charged Rune's salient at the point where Battle's 
Brigade was posted, carrying the works for a few hun- 
dred yards on each side of that point, doubling and 
throwing Cook's Brigade back a short distance. I hur- 
ried the commands of Colonels Cowand and Archer to 
the point of attack as rapidly as possible, charging the 
enemy, who were in possession of and pi'otected by our 
14 






106 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OP 

traverses and bomb-proofs (which were erected to pre- 
vent our line being enfiladed, and iflso as a place of refuge 
from their perpendicular mortar fire), and continued 
gradually to gain traverse after traverse of our captured 
works. 

I then secured four |)ieces of artillery, which were 
placed in our second line of works, whose services were 
invaluable in checking the advance of the enemy, thus 
confining them by grape and canister to this particular 
point at the salient, preventing their advancing to attack 
our lines in flank or rear; Cook and Battle holding them 
in check on the left, and Cowand and Archer on the right 
of the captured works, their only point of egress being 
exposed to the fire of the artillery. 

I regret my inability to recall the names and thus 
irive honorable mention to those gallant artillerists who 
rendered me such effective service. 

During the forenoon Brigade, under command 

of Colonel , reported to me for duty, and were 

placed near the artillery in this second line of earth- 
works (which had been constructed to fall back upon in 
case of disaster to our first line). My dispositions were 
soon made to attack the enemy simultaneously at all 
points — Cowand and Archer on the right, CooU and Bat- 
tle on the left, who were to drive them from the protec- 



MAJOR-GENERAL BRYAN GRIMES. 107 

tion of their traverses. Colonel commaDded in 

tront with a heavy line of skirmishers, connecting his 
left with Cook and his right with Cowand. My four 
pieces of artillery poured grape and canister into the 
enemy, and I gave the signal for the infantry advance, 
when a general charge was made, but through a direct 

violation of orders on the part of Colonel , this 

attack only partially succeeded, capturing that portion 
of the line alone upon which the skirmishers advanced, 

Colonel having changed the direction of attack, 

and charged the point assigned to the skirmishers on the 
right, thereby leaving a space of three hundred yards 
unassailed. There is no doubt in ray mind if Colonel 

had attacked with vigor at that time, we could 

have driven the enemy entirely from our works. After 
the lapse of an hour, during which time the enemy were 
heavily re-inforced, I ordered another attack from the 

second line, in which Colonel participated, but by 

again diverting his brigade in the direction of Cowand's 
Brigade, instead of towards the salient, the enemy were 
dislodged from only a small portion of the lines. 

Subsequently sixty men of Johnston's North Carolina 
Brigade, under command of Captain Plato Durham, 
recaptured Fort Mahone, which for an hour had been so 
covered bv our fire as to forbid their showino- themselves. 



108 EXTRACTS OF IvETTEES OF 

In taking this fort a large number of prisoners were 
captured; so many, in fact, that when I first saw them 
skulking behind the earthworks for protection against 
the fire of their own men, I feared it was a ruse on the 
part of the enemy to surprise us, they having secreted 
themselves for safety in this work, and we in our charge 
had taken the only outlet. 

After this no general attack was made, though we 
continued slowly but gradually to drive them from 
traverse to traverse. 

About nightfall the enemy occupied some two hun- 
dred yards of our breastworks. Through iio inefficiency 
or negligence on the part of the officers and men were 
the works carried, but owing to the weakness of the 
line, its extreme length, and the want of sufficient force 
to defend it, for they acted most heroically on this trying 
occasion. Only one un wounded man (an officer) did I see 
seeking the rear, and he one whom I had the previous 
day ordered under arrest for trafficking with the enemy 
(exchanging tobacco for coffise). Him I hailed and in- 
quired where he was going, when he recalled his arrest 
the previous day, from which I immediately released 
him and sent him back to his command. 

I had a verbal conference with General Lee and after- 
wards officially reported my inability to hold this point 



MAJOR-GENERAL BRYAX GRIMES. 109 

against any vigorous attack. In consequence of this 
report, Lieutenant-Colonel Payton, the Army Inspector, 
was sent the day before to examiue this line, who coin- 
cided with my views and so reported to General Lee. 
On an average throughout, the space from man to man 
was at least eight feet in the Hue of trenches. I doubted 
not that with a reserve of five hundred men I could have 
driven the enemy from any point which they might 
capture, and repeatedly urged that such an arrangement 
be made, knowing well that the enemy, by concentrating 
a large force on any given point, could press their way 
through the line, and my only salvation was in having 
the means at hand to drive them back before large num- 
bers could enter. Our left was the post of greatest 
danger — there should the reserve have been placed ; but 
General Lee informed me that every available man was 
on duty, and I nuist do the best I could. 

On Sunday night of the 2d, we had orders to abandon 
the works, and without the knowledge of the Federals, 
we withdrew to the north side of the Appomattox river, 
folloNving the Hickory road to Goode's bridge, where we 
recrossed the Appomattox, proceeding towards Amelia 
Court House, which we reached on the morning of the 
")th. Wednesday we remained stationary in line of 
battle, confronting the enemy until about dark, when we 



110 EXTRACTS OF i.ETTEKS OF 

followed the army, taking up the rear, being very much 
impeded on the march by the wagon train and its most 
miserable management, which, as I apprehended, would 
cause us some disaster. The enemy showed themselves 
on Thursday, about 8 A. m., in our rear and on our left 
flank, when near Amelia Springs, and in a short time be- 
gan to press us vigorously. 

I then formed Cox's and Cowand's Brigades in line 
of battle, with a heavy skirmish line in front to impede 
their progress and to cover our rear, sending Battle's, 
Cook's and Archer's Brigades forward for one-half mile 
to form there, across the road, in line of battle, in order 
to allow Cowand and Cox to retreat safely when the 
enemy had deployed and prepared to attack ; our right 
flank being j)r()tected by a North Carolina brigade of 
cavalry, under General Roberts. In this manner, alter- 
nating the brigades throughout the day, we continued 
to oppose the eneaiy and retreat, endeavoring to protect 
the lagging wagon train, which was successfully done 
up to about 4 p. M., when we approached Sailor's Creek, 
and upon the ridge running parallel with that stream we 
made the final stand of the day, the wagons becoming 
blocked up at the bridge crossing this stream. At this 
point General Lee ordered me, if possible, to hold this 



MAJOR-GENERAL BRYAN GRIMES. 1 1 1 

line of hills until he could have artillery put in position 
on tlie opposite hills over the creek parallel ^vith those 
I occupied. 

The enemy pushed on rapidly, attacking us with very 
great pertinacity. We here repeatedly repulsed their as- 
saults, but by turning both of our flanks they succeeded in 
not only dislodging but driving us across the creek in 
confusion. About now the artillery from the heights occu- 
pied by General Lee opened upon the enemy, and the 
sun being down they did not cross the creek. After we 
broke, personally I was so pressed that the space between 
the two wings of the enemy was not over two hundred 
yards, when I sought safety in retreat. 1 galloped to 
the creek (the bridge being in their possession) where 
the banks were very precipitous, and for protection from 
their murderous fire, concluded to jump my horse in, 
riding him through the water, and eifect my escape by 
abandoning him on the other side, the bullets of the 
enemy whistling around me like hail all the while. By 
great good fortune, the opposite banks proving not so 
precipitous, and my horse seeming to appreciate the situ- 
ation, clambered up the height, starting off in a run, 
thus securing my safety. This same animal, Warren, 
I still own and treasure for his past services. That 
night we took the road for Farmville, crossing the 



112 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

Appomattox at High Bridge, posting guards on the 
south side, thus collecting all stragglers and returning 
them to their commands. 

The next morning (Friday) we continued our march 
down the railroad and formed line of battle on the 
Lynchburg road, still endeavoring to preserve that "im- 
pediment of Csesar's" — the wagon train — marching by 
the left flank through the woods parallel to the road 
traveled by the wagon train, and about one hundred or 
so yards distant from the road. Upon reaching the 
road and point that turns towards Lynchburg from the 
Cumberland road, three of my brigades, Cook's, Cox's 
and Cowand's, had crossed the Cumberland road and 
were in line of battle, and at right angles with Battle's 
and Archer's Brigades, who were still parallel with the 
Cumberland road. Heavy firing was going on at this 
point, when General Mahone came rushing up and 
reported that the enemy had charged, turning his flank, 
and driving his men from their guns and the works 
which he had erected early in the day for the protection 
of these cross roads. I then ordered my three brigades, 
Cook's, Cox's and Cowand's, at a double-quick on the 
line, with Battle and Archer, charging the enemy and 
driving them well off from Mahone's works, recaptur- 
ing the artillery taken by them and capturing a large 



MAJOR-GENERAL BRYAN GRIMES. 118 

immher of prisoners, and holding this position until 
sent for by General Lee, who complimented the troops 
of the division upon the charge made and the service 
rendered, ordering me to leave a skirmish line in my 
front, and that Fields' Division would occupy my posi- 
tion ; I to hurry with all possible dispatch to the road 
which intersected the Lynchburg road, as the enemy's 
cavalry were reported to be approaching by that road. 

We reached this road, halting and keeping the enemy 
in check until the wagons had passed, and then continued 
the march parallel with the road traveled by the wagon 
train, continuing thus to march until night, when we 
took the road followiug to protect the trains. 

On Saturday, the 8th, no enemy appeared, and ue 
marched undisturbed all day. Up to this time, since 
the evacuation of Petersburg, we had marched day and 
night, continually followed and harassed by the enemy. 
The men were very much jaded and suifering for neces- 
sary sustenance, our halts not having been suiBciently 
long to prepare their food, besides all of our cooking 
utensils not captured or abandoned were where we could 
not reach them. This day Bushrod Johnson's Division 
was assigned to and placed under my command, In- 
order of General Lee. Upon passing a clear stream of 
water and learning that the other division of the corps 

leD 



114 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

had gone into camp some two or three miles ahead, I 
concluded to halt and give my broken down men an op- 
portunity to close up and rejoin us, and sent a message to 
General Gordon, commanding the corps, making known 
my whereabouts, informing him I would be at any point 
he might designate at any hour desired. 

By dark ray men were all quiet and asleej). About 
9 o'clock I heard the roar of artillery in our front, and 
in consequence of information received, I had my com- 
mand aroused in time and passed through the town of 
Appomattox Court House before daylight, where, upon 
the opposite side of the town, I found the enemy in my 
front. Throwing out my skirmishers and forming line 
of battle, I reconnoitered and satisfied myself as to their 
position, and awaited the arrival of General Gordon for 
instructions, who, awhile before day, accompanied by 
General Fitz Lee, came to my position, when Ave held a 
council of war. General Gordon was of the opinion 
that the troops in our front were cavalry, and General 
Fitz Lee should attack. Fitz Lee thought they were 
infantry, and that Gordon should attack. They dis- 
cussed the matter so long that I became impatient, and 
said it was somebody's duty to attack, and that immedi- 
ately, and I felt satisfied that they could be driven from 
the cross-roads occupied by them, which was the route 



MAJOR-GENERAL, BRYAN GRIMES. 115 

it was desirable our wagon train should pursue, and that 
I would undertake it; whereupon Gordon said, "Well, 
drive them off." I replied, "I cannot do it with my 
division alone, but require assistance." He then said, 
*'You can take the other two divisions of the corps." 
About this time it was becoming sufficiently light to make 
the surrounding localities visible. I then rode down and 
invited General Walker, who commanded a division on 
my left, composed principally of Virginians, to ride with 
me, showing him the position of the enemy and explain- 
ing to him my views and plan of attack. He agreed 
with me as to its advisability. I did this because I felt 
that I had assumed a very great responsibility when I 
took upon myself the charge of making the attack. I 
then made dispositions to dislodge the Federals from 
their position, placing Bushrod Johnson's Division upon 
my right, with instructions to attack and take the enemy 
in the flank, while my division skirmishers charged in 
front, where temporary earth- works had been thrown up 
by the enemy, their cavalry holding the crossings of the 
road with a battery. I soon perceived a disposition on 
their part to attack this division in flank. I rode back 
and threw their right so as to take advantage of some 
ditches and fences to obstruct the cavalry if they should 
attempt to make a charge. In the meantime the cavalry 



116 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

of Fitz Lee were proceeding by a circuitous route to 
get in rear of them at these cross-roads. The enemy 
observing me placing these troops in position, fired upon 
me with four pieces of artillery. I remember well the 
appearance of the shell, and how directly they came to- 
wards me, exploding and completely developing me in 
smoke. I then gave the signal to advance, at the same 
time Fitz Lee charged those posted at the cross-roads, 
when my skirmishers attacked the breastworks, which 
were taken without much loss on my part, also captur- 
ing several pieces of artillery and a large number of 
prisoners, I at the same time moving the division up to 
the support of the skirmishers in echelon by brigades, 
driving the enemy in confusion for three-quarters of a 
mile, beyond a range of hills covered with oak under- 
growth. I then learned from prisoners that my right 
flank was threatened. Halting my troops, I placed the 
skirmishers, commanded by Colonel J. R. Winston, 
Forty-fifth North Carolina Troops, in front, about one 
hundred yards distant, to give notice of indication of 
attack. Placed Cox's Brigade, which occupied the 
right of the division at right angles to the other 
troops, to watch that flank. The other divisions of the 
corps (Walker and Evans) were on the left. I then 
sent an officer to General Gordon announcino- our sue- 



MAJOR-GENERAL BRYAN GRIMES. 117 

cess, uikI that the Lynchburg- road was open for the 
escape of the wagons, and that I awaited arders. There- 
upon I received an order to withdraw, which I declined 
to do, supposing that General Gordon did not under- 
stand the commanding position which my troops occu- 
pied. He continued to send me order after order to the 
same effect, which I still disregarded, being under the 
impression that he (h'd not comprehend our favorable 
location, until finally I received a message from him, 
with an additional one as coming from General Lee, to 
fall back. I felt the difficulty of withdrawal without 
disaster, and ordered Colonel J, R. Winston, command- 
ing the skirmish line which had been p(jsted in my front 
on reaching first these hills, to conform his movements 
to those of the division, and to move by the left flank 
so as to give us notice of an attack from that quarter. 
I then ordered Cox to maintain his position in line of 
battle, and not to show^ himself until our rear was one 
hundred yards distant, and then to fall back in line of 
battle, so as to protect our rear and right flank from 
assault. I then instructed Major Peyton, of my staff, 
to start the left in motion, and I continued with the rear. 
The enemy, upon seeing us move off, rushed out from 
luider cover with a cheer, when Cox's Brigade, lying 
concealed at the brow of the hill, rose and fired a volley 



118 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

into them, which drove them back iuto the woods, the 
brigade then following their retreating comrades in line 
of battle nnmolested. After proceeding about half the 
distance to the position occupied by us in the morning, 
a dense mass of the enemy in column (infantry) appeared 
on our right, and advanced, without firing, towards the 
earth-works captured by us in the early morning, when 
a battery of our artillery opened with grape and canister, 
and di-ove them under the shelter of the woods. 

As ray troops approached their position of the morn- 
ing, I rode up to General Gordon and asked where I 
should form line of battle. He replied, " Anywhere you 
choose." Struck by the strangeness of the reply, I 
asked an explanation, whereupon he informed me that 
we would be surrendered. I expressed very forcibly my 
dissent to being surrendered, and indignantly upbraided 
him for not o-ivino- me notice of such intention, as I 
could have escaped with my division and joined General 
Joe Johnston, then in North Carolina, Furthermore, 
that I should then inform my men of the purpose to 
surrender, and that whomsoever desired to escape that 
calamity could go with me, and galloped off to carry 
this idea- into effect. Before reaching my troops, how- 
ever, General Gordon overtook me, and placing his 



MAJOR-GEXERAT. BRYAN GRIMES. 11!) 

hand upon my slioulder, asked me if I were going to 
desert the army, and tarnish my own lionor as a soldier; 
that it would be a reflection upon General Lee, and an 
indellible disgrace to me, that I, an officer of" rank, 
should escape under a flag of truce, which was then 
pending. I was in a dilemma, and knew not what to do, 
but finally concluded to say nothing on the subject to 
my troops. 

Upon reaching them, one of the soldiers inquired if 
General Lee had surrendered, and upon answering I 
feared it was a fact that we had been surrendered, he 
cast away liis musket, and holding his hands aloft, cried 
in an agonized voice, " Blow, Gabriel, blow ! My God, 
let him blow, I am ready to die!" We then went be- 
yond the creek at Appomattox Court House, stacked 
arms amid the bitter tears of bronzed veterans, regret- 
ting the necessity of capitulation. 

Among the incidents ever fresh in my memory of 
this fatal day to the Confederacy is the remark of a 
private soldier. When riding up to my old regiment 
to shake by the hand each comrade who had followed 
me through four years of suffering, toil and privation, 
often worse than death, to bid them a final, affectionate, 
and, in many instances, an eternal farewell, a cadaver- 



120 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

ous, ragged, bure-footcd man grasped me by the hand, 
and, choking with sobs, said : "Good-bye, General ; God 
bless yon ; we will go honje, make tliree more crops, and 
try them again." I mention this instance simply to show 
the spirit, the pluck, and the faith of our men in the 
justice of our cause, and that he surrendered more to 
grim famine than to the prowess of our enemies. 

That day and the next the terms of surrender were 
adjusted; the following day our paroles signed and 
countersigned, and on Wednesday, April 12th, 1865, 
we stacked arms in an old field, and each man sought 
his home as best he might. 

I have given in the above a simple, true and unvar- 
nished statement of facts, occurring during the dying 
struggles of the Army of Northern Virginia, in so far 
only as I was an eye-witness and participant in those 
events; with no view to laud my own achievements, or 
seeming to seek an nndeserved honor, or to take the 
least sprig of laurel from another's brow, but simply in 
the interest of the truth of history. 

I assert that I was at Appomattox, and that I com- 
manded my own division at Appomattox; and General 
Gordon, the corps commander, bears me out in this 
assertion, and, moreover, states that I volunteered my 



MAJOR-GENERA r. BRYAX GRIMES. 121 

services, and did make the last charge made l)y the in- 
fantry at Appomattox. 

Very resj)eetfully, 

Your obedient servant, 

Bryan Grimes, 
Major-Genei-cd in late P. A. C. S. 



Raleigh, N. C, December 20, 1879. 

To General Bryan Grimes. 

My Dear Sir: I owe you a thousand thanks for 
vour full and extremely valuable letter. It explains 
manv things I did not understand before, and will 
greatly add to the vindication of the North Carolinians 
as to the last sad hours of the Army of Northern Vir- 
ginia. Pray excuse my delay in acknowledging your 
great kindness, and, believe me, 

Very truly yours, 

(Signed) J. W. INIoore. 



16 



122 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

[General <);nme.s' Keply to Letter of Charles C. Jones, Jr.. April Hi, 1K72.] 

Accept my sincere thanks for your book, and although 
as you say local in its character, have derived great 
pleasure in its perusal. The mention of General Col- 
quitt's name recalled some associations with it. One 
was that, upon reaching Yorktown, April 9th, 1862, we 
relieved the Sixtii Georgia Regiment and established 
ourselves in Colonel Colquitt's "hole in the ground" 
with a tent over it, and in a few days found one of the 
attendants of close quarters, and my person covered be- 
fore we ever dreamed of such pests. Another reminis- 
cence is having a Bible (in my library now) picked up 
on the night of our retreat from Yorktown, I having 
been detailed to bring off the pickets. I enclose you 
autographs of Generals Ramseur and Daniel, with his 
approval upon application for leave of absence while 
near Orange Court House; also a paper addressed to 
Colonel Taylor, I su})])ose upon which I made this 
application. I have fragments and skeletons of reports 
made of different engagements — Gettysburg, last few 
days of the war, from breaking of our lines at Peters- 
burg to the morning of surrender at Appomattox Court 
House, and some others. The last infantry charge by 
the Army of Northern Virginia was made by my divis- 



M.UOR-CKNERAL BRYAN GRIMES. 123 

ion, as General Gordon, oui" corps commander, will 
substantiate. The form of parole for General John- 
ston's troops was taken from my papers, borrowed by 
Colonel AVherry, General Scofield's Adjntant-General or 
Aid-de-Canip, to guide Sehofield in adjusting this mat- 
ter. By-the-by, Generals Sherman, Sehofield, Terry, 
Bevis, ct id omne genus, had a champagne drinking iu 
Raleigh just after Johnston's surrender, and sent this 
same Colonel Wherry over to invite me to join them, 
which I most indignantly declined. That evening we 
heard of Lincoln's assassination. Reminiscences of the 
])ast crowd upon me, and however pleasant, or rather 
unpleasant, may not prove agreeable to you, and if I do 
not halt, will exhaust my paper before I have given you 
information asked for. You can procure all informa- 
tion relative to General Ramscur from Captain Ricii- 
mond (Aid-de-Camp to General R.), Milton, N. C. I 
wrote to Mr. Richuiond a few w^eeks ago, and received 
no reply. H you do not hear from him, then address 
Hon. D. Schenck, Lincolnton, N. C, who married Gen- 
eral R.'s sister. Ramseur married his first cousin (Rich- 
mond's sister). Hon. E. Conigland, Halifax, N. C, 
will cheerfully give you all information relative to his 
brother-in-law, General Daniel. William E. Anderson, 
President Citizens Xational Bank, Raleigh, can tell vou 



124 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

everything about his l)rother, General G. B. Anderson. 
Yon ask notbirig of my dear friends and relatives, J. J. 
Pettigrew and L. O'B. Branch, the first killed at Fall- 
ing "Waters upon the retreat from Pennsylvania, the 
latter at Sharpsburg. You perhaps regard Pettigrew as 
a South Carolinian. We claim him. He is a native, 
and was educated in this State, was Colonel of a North 
Carolina regiment, and commanded a Xorth Carolina 
brigade at the time of his death. Rev. AV. S. Pettigrew, 
Henderson, N. C, will give you all the particulars rela- 
tive to him, and Mrs. L. O'B. Branch, Raleigh, or son, 
W. A. B. Brach, Washington, N. C, will take pleasure 
in communicating all facts relative to General Branch. 
There is General Pender, whose widow and brother live 
in Tarboro, X. C Pender I knew but slightly, only 
after the war commenced, the others were life-long ac- 
quaintances and friends from childhood. I think it 
probable I shall revisit New York on the Jtli or 5th of 
May, and stop at the St. Nicholas. I can, if of service 
to you, send you a roster of all the regiments and field 
officers from North Carolina. 

Very respectfully yours, 

BiiYAX Grimes. 



major-gf:xeral bryax grimes. 12-") 

[Letter from (ienenil J. B. (Tordon ] 

New York, May 6, 1872. 

General Bryan Grimes, N. C. 

My Dear General: Yours asking my recollection 
of the participation of your division in the last day's 
battle of Appomattox Court House would have been 
answered before I left my home in Georgia but for cir- 
cumstances beyond my control. It is a source of pleas- 
ure to me not only to do this, but also to express my 
sincere appreciation of your valuable services during that 
portion of the war when it was my fortune to command 
the Second Corps Army Northern Virginia, to which 
your division was attached. When I was first placed in 
command of the corps, in the fall of 1864, at or near 
Petersburg, you will remember that you were detached 
from the other divisions and did not join them until a 
short time before the attack upon General Grant's lines 
in front of Petersburg. You participated in the battles 
then and during the terrible days and nights which fol- 
lowed prior to and after the breaking of our lines by 
Grant's array, as well as upon the retreat. But it is of 
the last fight of the Army of Northern Virginia in 
which you bore so conspicuous a part at Appomattox 
Court House that vou ask my recollections. It would 



126 EXTKACTS OF I.ETTKRS OP 

be difficult, my dear General, to forget your anxiety to 
get your division well up and compact on the evening 
of the 8th of April, the day preceding that last battle 
and the final surrender of the army, as well as your 
assurance to me that, if allowed to rest and gather up 
your broken down men, you would be on hand at any 
time during the night of the 8th or morning of the 9th 
to take part in any movement which might be ordered. 
My consent, you will remember, was obtained that you 
should go into camp and rest your men, but before day 
on the morning of the 9th of April, you were at the 
front ready to participate with your division in the last 
effort ever to be made by the army of (General Lee. 

The plan agreed upon at the council of war held at 
General Lee's headcjuarters during the night of the 8th,' 
between General Lee, General Pendleton, commanding 
the artillery. General Fitz Hugh Lee, commanding the 
cavalry, General Longstreet and myself, who commanded 
the two wings of his army, was this: My command, 
consisting of about one-half of the army, with the cav- 
alry, was to attack the enemy's cavalry in front of 
Appomattox Court House, and attempt to cut a way 
out, and I>ongstreet and the artillery not engaged with 
my command and the wagon train was to follow. It 
was supposed that nothing more than the enemy's cav- 



MAJOK-GENERAL BRYAX GRIMES. \'27 

airy was in our front, and though largely outnumbering 
the whole of my command and the cavalry of General 
Lee, yet it was supposed, as the result proved, that 
Sheridan's cavalry could be beaten back. It was during 
the preparation for this final move in the early morning 
of the 9th, that you offered to make the attack in front. 
Your division, with the other troops, were placed in 
line, while General Fitz Hugh Lee's cavalry moved to 
our right. The attack was made and proved eminently 
successful, resulting in the capture of the enemy's works 
which he had temporarily thrown up in our front, and 
the taking of six pieces (I think) of his artillery. You 
were not halted for a considerable time, but pressed 
steadily forward to the front, until I ordered you to 
rear, upon receiving intelligence from General R. E. 
Lee that a flag of truce was in existence between him- 
self and General Grant, and upon the appearance and 
advance of heavy bodies of infantry upon both our 
flanks. Your indisposition to retreat then, and your 
anxiety to go on, was manifest; but I knew more of the 
situation than you did, and in accordance with the 
understanding at the counsel of war the night previous, 
the appearance of these large bodies of the enemy's in- 
fantry, and the impossibility of General Longstreet's 
moving up, the constantly increasing distance between 
us, and the pressing of the enemy's force into this space, 



128 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

it was ncces.-ary for me to notify General Lee of the 
situation then, and these circumstances rendered resist- 
ance for any positive advantage useless, and loss of life 
by our brave men of no avail. 

On the receipt of the note from General Lee, I 
ordered you to the rear, and notified General Sheridan 
of the existence of a " flag of truce," who insisted u|)on 
the separate surrender of my command to him, which I 
refused. It was a.t this time you asked me what the 
meaning was of my instructions to you to put your men 
in any position you could select, and suggested that I 
l)ermit you to return to the front. It was very painful 
to announce to you and to the troops the surrender of 
the army, and when you were made aware of it, you 
expressed your regret that I had not informed you while 
you were in front, that you might have made the effort 
to escape with your command. 

I was touched, General, by your indisposition to meet 
this dreaded ordeal, as I was by the grief, the anguish 
of all our brave men, but it was all over — all was done 
that could be done by the army, and any escape of small 
bodies of troops would have been charged as treachery 
on General Lee's part toward General Grant, from whose 
overwhelming forces it was impossible now to extricate 
the remnant of the "Armv of Northern Viro;inia." This 



.AIAJOR-GENERAL BRYAN GRIMES. 129 

occasion was the most trying one of all our lives; but, 
General, the ungenerous effort to humiliate us since the 
war, by the strong arm of power, has made upon my 
heart, and doubtless upon yovu's, a more ineffaceable im- 
pression than all else connected with our past history. 
We were entitled to honorable, magnanimous legislation 
by the general government; but the purposes of the 
party in power have seemed to be only to irritate by 
prescriptive laws, and drive us to desperation by the 
support of those forced in power over us, who in the 
name of law have robbed us, in the name of liberty have 
inaugurated the rule of the bayonet, arrested and im- 
prisoned the innocent, and gloated in the oppression of 
our citizens. 

May the God of righteousness bring us deliverance. 
Most truly your friend, 

(Signed) J. B. Gordox. 

To Major-General Grimes, N. C. 



On page 95 of Colonel Walter H. Taylor's book, en- 
titled " Four Years with General Lee" (which book is 
now in General Grimes' library), the first section is 
marked thus % and reads as follows : 
17 



130 EXTEACTS OF LETTERS OF 

"General Lee witnessed the flight of the Federals 
through Gettysburg and up the hill beyond. He then 
directed me to go to General Ewell and to say to him 
that from the position which he occupied he could see 
the enemy retreating over those hills without organiza- 
tion and in great confusion, that it was only necessary 
to press " those people " in order to secure jDossession of 
the heights, and that, if possible, he wished him to do 
this. In obedience to these instructions, I proceeded 
immediately to General Ewell and delivered the order 
of General Lee; and after receiving from him some 
message for the commanding general in regard to the 
prisoners captured, returned to the latter and reported 
that his order had been delivered." 

All around the margin of this page appears the fol- 
lowing in pencil, and written in General Grimes' own 
handwriting : 

" I was in the lead and saw the first pieces of artillery, 
two in number, making for this hill. The enemy were 
routed and retreating in great confusion. General Ram- 
seur, with my regiment in advance, was rushing up 
and following the enemy, and, without the slightest 
doubt in my mind, could have captured these guns and 
occupied the hill, but an officer of rank rode up and 
advised that Ave await re-inforcements, which was done. 



MAJOR-GENEEAL BRYAN GRIMES. 1 .'51 

and we were drawn back to the main street of Gettys- 
burg, and tliere remained, without firing a shot the 
whole of the evening — sevei'al hours of dayh'ght." 

General Ramseur says in his report of the battle of 
Gettysburg (see Southern Historical Papers. — C): 

"The enemy was pushed through Gettysburg to the 
heights beyond, when I received an order to halt and 
form line of battle in a street in Gettysburg running east 
and west. 

"To Colonel Parker, Thirtieth North Carolina; 
Colonel Bennett, Nineteenth North Carolina; Colonel 
Grimes, Fourth North Carolina, and Major Hurt, 
Second North Carolina, my thanks are due for skill and 
gallantry displayed by them in this day's fight." 

General Grimes received a copy of Moore's History 
of North Carolina only a few days before his death, and 
had but little opportunity to examine it, and had only 
read disconnected parts of it. 

On page 170, Vol. II, in the two last lines of said 
page, he makes the following corrections : Erases 
"Twelfth, Colonel Daniel," and writes "Fourteenth, 
Colonel II. T. Bennett "; and erases " Twentieth, Colo- 
nel T. F. Toon," and writes "Thirtieth, Colonel F. M. 
Parker." 



132 EXTRACTS OF LETTERS OF 

On page 100, Vol. II, on the left margin of said 
page, appears the following, written also in pencil, in 
his own handwriting : 

" I commanded Anderson's Brigade at this battle, 
consisting of the Second, Fourth, Fourteenth and Thir- 
tieth Regiments of N. C. Troops. 

"Bryan Grimes." 

On page 259, Vol. II, Major Moore, in describing 
General Lee leading the charge in person at the battle 
of Spottsylvauia Court House, places the date of this 
charge in person by General Lee on the morning of the 
10th of May. 

On the right margin of said page is written in pencil : 
" It was on the 6th May that General Lee led the charge 
in person." 

On page 260, Vol. II, Major Moore says : " Conspi- 
cuous in this charge was the youthful and slender form 
of Brigadier-General Stephen D. Ramseur, of Lincoln 
county, North Carolina." On the left margin of said 
page is written in pencil : " This charge was led by Gen- 
eral Bryan Grimes, commanding Ramseur's Brigade, 
Ramseur being disabled by a wound." 

****** ;)c 



MAJOR-GENERAL BRYAN GRIMES. 133 



[About the time the printing of this book was nearly completed, the follow- 
ing was found in a book in General Grimes' lilirary, in his own hand- 
writing, and given here exactly as it is written. — C] 

Ewell's Corps, composed of Rodes, Early and John- 
son's commands, surprised General Milroy. We drove 
the enemy's cavalry from the summit, and ousted them 
to intercept the retreat of the enemy from Winchester. 
Captured the cavalry camp at Berry ville. We moved 
down to Martinsburg and drove the enemy into and 
through the town, taking several pieces of artillery and 
seven hundred prisoners. Then moved up and crossed 
the Potomac River at Williamsport. Occupied Cham- 
bersburg on 23d of June, 1863. Was Provost Mar- 
shal of Hagerstown. There we spent several days, and 
then moved to Chambersburg. Insidious talk of man 
of Company A; turned him over to his own men for 
punishment. Sent to Carlisle, within eight miles of 
Harrisburg, on picket duty. Headquarters in brick 
house. Woman's remark about Quartermaster. Regi- 
ment quartered in a very large house. Saw the Perry 
militia coming out with their high sugar-loaf hats. Put 
a portion of my picket in ambush, allowing militia to 
pass, surprising them in front and shooting in their rear. 
Supplied my men with their hats, which fell off in their 



134 EXTRACTS OF liETTERS. 

confusion. Their stampede through Harrisburg, through 
the wheat fields. Here tasted for the first time Planta- 
tion Bitters, taken from the pocket of a dead Federal. 
We stampeded all of them, about five hundred. Killed 
and wounded many. Captured many horses without 
having a man wounded. Were nearer Harrisburg than 
perhaps any troops except cavalry scouts. Severity of 
orders against plundering the inhabitants. Punishment 
of men who went in a house and took jc^velry. The 
rest of our brigade occupied the U. S. Barracks. Move 
towards Gettysburg. Rode in ambulance all the time, 
except Avhen expecting an engagement, owing to injury 
on my foot. 



